CVE-2021-31181 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2021-31181, a high-severity Microsoft SharePoint Remote Code Execution Vulnerability affecting enterprise servers. Understand the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
Microsoft SharePoint Remote Code Execution Vulnerability was disclosed on May 11, 2021, by Microsoft. It has a base severity of HIGH with a CVSS score of 8.8.
Understanding CVE-2021-31181
This CVE affects Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016, Microsoft SharePoint Server 2019, and Microsoft SharePoint Foundation 2013 Service Pack 1, allowing remote code execution.
What is CVE-2021-31181?
The CVE-2021-31181 is a remote code execution vulnerability that affects Microsoft SharePoint servers. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the target system.
The Impact of CVE-2021-31181
This vulnerability has a high impact as it allows remote attackers to take complete control of the affected SharePoint servers. It could result in sensitive data theft, system compromise, or disruptions of services.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-31181
CVE-2021-31181 allows remote code execution on Microsoft SharePoint servers, posing a significant threat to organizations using the affected versions.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target systems by exploiting Microsoft SharePoint servers.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Microsoft SharePoint Enterprise Server 2016 (Version 16.0.0 to 16.0.5161.1000)
- Microsoft SharePoint Server 2019 (Version 16.0.0 to 16.0.10374.20000)
- Microsoft SharePoint Foundation 2013 Service Pack 1 (Version 15.0.0 to 15.0.5345.1000)
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploitation of CVE-2021-31181 involves sending malicious requests to vulnerable SharePoint servers to execute arbitrary code remotely.
Mitigation and Prevention
Organizations should take immediate steps to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2021-31181 and implement long-term security measures.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by Microsoft for the affected SharePoint versions.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities targeting SharePoint servers.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch Microsoft SharePoint servers to prevent known vulnerabilities.
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks on SharePoint servers.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that Microsoft security updates for SharePoint servers are promptly applied to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.