CVE-2021-29543 : Security Advisory and Response

TensorFlow is an end-to-end open source platform for machine learning. An attacker can trigger a denial of service via a

CHECK

-fail in

tf.raw_ops.CTCGreedyDecoder

. This abnormal termination can be exploited in denial of service attacks. The fix will be included in TensorFlow 2.5.0, with cherry-picked commits for versions 2.4.2, 2.3.3, 2.2.3, and 2.1.4.

Understanding CVE-2021-29543

This CVE relates to a vulnerability in TensorFlow that can be exploited for denial of service attacks.

What is CVE-2021-29543?

TensorFlow's vulnerability allows attackers to trigger denial of service via a

CHECK

-fail in

tf.raw_ops.CTCGreedyDecoder

.

The Impact of CVE-2021-29543

The vulnerability can lead to abnormal termination, potentially resulting in denial of service attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-29543

The vulnerability arises from a

CHECK_LT

in the implementation of

CTCGreedyDecoder

in TensorFlow.

Vulnerability Description

An attacker can trigger a denial of service by exploiting the

CHECK

-fail condition in

CTCGreedyDecoder

.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions affected include TensorFlow < 2.1.4, >= 2.2.0 and < 2.2.3, >= 2.3.0 and < 2.3.3, and >= 2.4.0 and < 2.4.2.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability in the

CTCGreedyDecoder

module to trigger denial of service attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

It's crucial to take immediate steps and prioritize long-term security practices to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2021-29543.

Immediate Steps to Take

Ensure you update TensorFlow to version 2.5.0 or apply the cherry-picked commits for versions 2.4.2, 2.3.3, 2.2.3, and 2.1.4.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation, regular security audits, and stay updated with security patches.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security advisories from TensorFlow and promptly apply recommended patches.