CVE-2021-29097 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A buffer overflow vulnerability has been identified in various Esri products, including ArcReader, ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Engine, and ArcGIS Pro. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code without authentication.

Understanding CVE-2021-29097

This CVE refers to multiple buffer overflow vulnerabilities in Esri products, leading to potential arbitrary code execution.

What is CVE-2021-29097?

CVE-2021-29097 involves buffer overflow vulnerabilities in Esri ArcReader, ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Engine, and ArcGIS Pro. These vulnerabilities could be exploited by an unauthenticated attacker to achieve arbitrary code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2021-29097

The impact of this vulnerability is significant, as attackers could exploit it to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current user. This could lead to unauthorized access and compromise of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-29097

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from buffer overflow issues when processing specially crafted files in the affected Esri products. Versions earlier than specific versions are susceptible to this security flaw.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects versions of ArcReader, ArcGIS Desktop, ArcGIS Engine, and ArcGIS Pro prior to certain specified versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by tricking a user into opening a malicious file, triggering the buffer overflow and allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2021-29097 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the affected Esri products to the latest patched versions. Be cautious when handling files from untrusted sources to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices, regularly update software, and conduct security assessments to identify and address potential vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Esri has released security updates to address the buffer overflow vulnerabilities. It is crucial for users to apply these patches promptly to secure their systems.