CVE-2021-31386 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-31386, a vulnerability in Junos OS affecting Juniper Networks.

Understanding CVE-2021-31386

This section provides insights into the vulnerability, impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

What is CVE-2021-31386?

CVE-2021-31386 is a Protection Mechanism Failure vulnerability in the J-Web HTTP service of Juniper Networks Junos OS enabling remote unauthenticated attackers to conduct Person-in-the-Middle (PitM) attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31386

This vulnerability affects various Juniper Networks Junos OS versions (12.3 to 21.2) enabling unauthorized retrieval of encryption keys via PitM attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31386

This section details the vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the J-Web HTTP service of Junos OS, allowing remote unauthenticated attackers to execute PitM attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Juniper Networks Junos OS versions 12.3 to 21.2 are susceptible to this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely by attackers without the need for privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Explore the steps to immediately address and prevent CVE-2021-31386.

Immediate Steps to Take

Discontinue the use of HTTP and transition to HTTPS when utilizing J-Web services.

Long-Term Security Practices

Employ HTTPS for secure web-management practices and maintain updated software releases.

Patching and Updates

Juniper Networks has released software updates resolving this vulnerability for affected versions. Ensure to upgrade to the patched versions provided.