CVE-2021-29679 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 are impacted by a vulnerability that could allow an authenticated user to remotely execute code. The vulnerability arises from incorrectly handling user-controlled input, which could be interpreted as a server-side include directive.

Understanding CVE-2021-29679

This section will cover what CVE-2021-29679 entails, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-29679?

CVE-2021-29679 is a security vulnerability found in IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0. It enables authenticated users to execute code remotely due to mismanagement of user-controlled input.

The Impact of CVE-2021-29679

The impact of CVE-2021-29679 is rated as high severity. This vulnerability can lead to unauthorized remote code execution on affected systems, posing a significant risk to data confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-29679

Let's delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-29679, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 allows authenticated users to remotely execute code by exploiting user-controlled input incorrectly interpreted as a server-side include directive.

Affected Systems and Versions

IBM Cognos Analytics versions 11.1.7 and 11.2.0 are affected by this vulnerability. Users of these versions should take immediate action to secure their systems.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated users to input malicious code that is erroneously processed as a server-side include directive, leading to remote code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-29679, immediate steps, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates must be considered.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is crucial to apply official fixes provided by IBM promptly to address the vulnerability in affected versions of Cognos Analytics. Additionally, review and restrict user privileges to minimize the risk of unauthorized code execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, organizations should prioritize security measures such as regular security audits, user training on safe coding practices, and implementing robust input validation mechanisms.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and patches released by IBM for Cognos Analytics. Timely application of patches helps in mitigating known vulnerabilities and enhancing overall system security.