CVE-2021-29617 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

TensorFlow is an end-to-end open source platform for machine learning, where an attacker can exploit a vulnerability in the

tf.strings.substr

function, leading to a denial of service. This CVE has a CVSS base score of 2.5 (Low severity).

Understanding CVE-2021-29617

What is CVE-2021-29617?

TensorFlow, a widely used machine learning platform, is affected by a vulnerability that allows an attacker to trigger a denial of service by utilizing a

CHECK

-fail in

tf.strings.substr

with invalid arguments.

The Impact of CVE-2021-29617

The impact of this vulnerability is considered Low, as it affects the availability of the TensorFlow system without compromising confidentiality or integrity. The attacker needs low privileges, and the attack can be executed locally.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-29617

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to improper handling of exceptional conditions within the

tf.strings.substr

function, potentially leading to a crash.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts TensorFlow versions prior to 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

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by triggering a

CHECK

-fail in

tf.strings.substr

with malicious or invalid input arguments.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

To mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability, users are advised to update TensorFlow to version 2.5.0, which includes a fix for this issue. Users still on affected versions should apply the fix provided in TensorFlow 2.4.2, 2.3.3, 2.2.3, or 2.1.4.

Long-Term Security Practices

It is recommended to stay updated on security advisories from TensorFlow and promptly apply patches and updates to ensure the security of the machine learning platform.

Patching and Updates

Users are encouraged to regularly monitor for security updates and apply patches as soon as they are available to protect against known vulnerabilities.