CVE-2021-31475 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability in SolarWinds Orion Job Scheduler version 2020.2.1 HF 2 could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code, posing a significant threat to affected installations that require authentication for exploitation.

Understanding CVE-2021-31475

This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2021-31475, impacts SolarWinds Orion Job Scheduler version 2020.2.1 HF 2 by enabling attackers to execute malicious code remotely.

What is CVE-2021-31475?

CVE-2021-31475 is a critical vulnerability that exists within the JobRouterService WCF service of SolarWinds Orion Job Scheduler version 2020.2.1 HF 2. It allows attackers to access a critical resource through misconfigured WCF service, leading to unauthorized code execution, specifically in the context of an administrator.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31475

The impact of CVE-2021-31475 is severe, with a CVSSv3 base score of 8.8 (High). Attackers can exploit this vulnerability over the network with low attack complexity, resulting in high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31475

This section delves into the specific technical aspects related to CVE-2021-31475 to provide a deeper understanding of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

CVE-2021-31475 is categorized under CWE-732 (Incorrect Permission Assignment for Critical Resource) and originates from the misconfiguration of the WCF service within the JobRouterService, enabling unauthorized access to critical resources.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects SolarWinds Orion Job Scheduler version 2020.2.1 HF 2, requiring immediate attention from users utilizing this specific version.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2021-31475, attackers need to authenticate themselves to the affected SolarWinds Orion Job Scheduler installation, after which they can execute arbitrary code remotely.

Mitigation and Prevention

In light of the severity of CVE-2021-31475, it is crucial for organizations to implement immediate and long-term security measures to mitigate risks.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply security patches provided by SolarWinds promptly. Additionally, restricting network access to vulnerable services can help reduce the attack surface.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing the principle of least privilege, regular security audits, and ongoing security training for personnel can enhance the overall security posture against similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly updating SolarWinds Orion Job Scheduler to the latest versions and staying informed about security advisories can prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.