CVE-2021-29096 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-29096, a use-after-free vulnerability in Esri ArcReader, ArcGIS Desktop, and ArcGIS Engine, allowing arbitrary code execution.

Understanding CVE-2021-29096

This section provides insight into the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to CVE-2021-29096.

What is CVE-2021-29096?

The vulnerability involves a use-after-free issue when processing a malicious file in certain Esri products, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution on affected systems.

The Impact of CVE-2021-29096

With a CVSS base score of 7.8, this vulnerability poses a significant threat, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-29096

Here are the specific technical aspects of CVE-2021-29096, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The use-after-free flaw occurs during file parsing in Esri ArcReader, ArcGIS Desktop, and ArcGIS Engine versions earlier than 10.9.0, enabling attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

Platforms like x86 Windows, x64 Windows, and x64 Linux running the specified vulnerable versions of ArcGIS products are impacted by this security issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an unauthenticated attacker, leveraging a specially crafted file to trigger the use-after-free condition and execute arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-29096, users are advised to take immediate steps, implement long-term security practices, and apply necessary patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should apply security updates provided by Esri promptly and be cautious when handling files from untrusted sources to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

It is recommended to follow secure coding practices, restrict file access permissions, and enhance system monitoring to detect and respond to potential security threats proactively.

Patching and Updates

Esri has released security updates addressing CVE-2021-29096 in the affected products. Users should ensure they are running the latest versions to safeguard their systems against this vulnerability.