CVE-2021-31428 : Security Advisory and Response

This article discusses CVE-2021-31428, a vulnerability that allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Parallels Desktop 15.1.5-47309. It examines the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to this CVE.

Understanding CVE-2021-31428

In this section, we will delve into the specifics of CVE-2021-31428.

What is CVE-2021-31428?

CVE-2021-31428 permits local attackers to elevate privileges on impacted installations of Parallels Desktop 15.1.5-47309. The vulnerability arises from the insufficient validation of user-supplied data length before copying it into a fixed-length heap-based buffer within the IDE virtual device.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31428

The vulnerability's CVSS 3.0 base score is 8.2, classified as high severity, with a low attack complexity and local attack vector. It has high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with high privileges required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31428

This section provides a detailed overview of the technical aspects of CVE-2021-31428.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from a heap-based buffer overflow (CWE-122) in Parallels Desktop 15.1.5-47309, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code in the hypervisor context.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Parallels Desktop version 15.1.5-47309.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, attackers must initially have the capability to run high-privileged code on the target guest system.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-31428.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply security updates promptly, restrict system access, and monitor for any unusual activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing the principle of least privilege, regular security audits, and continuous monitoring are crucial for long-term security.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the Parallels Desktop software is patched with the latest security updates to address the vulnerability.