CVE-2021-28940 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability in MagpieRSS 0.72 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary commands by injecting a specific https URL in the RSS URL field. This CVE was published on April 2, 2021, by MITRE.

Understanding CVE-2021-28940

This section provides insights into the impact, technical details, affected systems, and mitigation strategies related to CVE-2021-28940.

What is CVE-2021-28940?

The vulnerability in MagpieRSS version 0.72 arises from an incorrectly escaped exec command in the /extlib/Snoopy.class.inc file, enabling the addition of extra commands to the curl binary. Exploiting this flaw allows the execution of arbitrary commands via specific https URLs.

The Impact of CVE-2021-28940

By leveraging this vulnerability, a malicious actor could execute unauthorized commands by manipulating the RSS URL field, potentially leading to unauthorized access or system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-28940

Let's explore the technical aspects of CVE-2021-28940 to understand its implications better.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw stems from an incorrectly escaped exec command in MagpieRSS 0.72, empowering attackers to inject additional commands into the curl binary, thereby enabling arbitrary command execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

All systems running MagpieRSS version 0.72 are susceptible to this vulnerability, allowing threat actors to exploit the flaw.

Exploitation Mechanism

By inputting a specific https URL into the RSS URL field on /scripts/magpie_debug.php and /scripts/magpie_simple.php pages, malicious actors can trigger the execution of unauthorized commands.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover how to safeguard your systems against CVE-2021-28940 and prevent potential security breaches.

Immediate Steps to Take

Ensure that you update MagpieRSS to a secure version and avoid inputting untrusted URLs into the RSS URL field to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and educating users on safe browsing habits can help enhance the overall security posture of your systems.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches released by MagpieRSS and promptly apply them to eliminate known vulnerabilities and protect your systems from potential threats.