CVE-2021-31483 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE pertains to a vulnerability in the OpenText Brava! Desktop version 16.6.3.84 that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code. User interaction is a prerequisite for exploitation, requiring the user to access a malicious page or file. The vulnerability originates from inadequate validation of user-supplied data in DWF file parsing, leading to a heap-based buffer overflow.

Understanding CVE-2021-31483

This section delves into the specifics of the CVE, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-31483?

The vulnerability in CVE-2021-31483 enables remote attackers to run arbitrary code on vulnerable installations of OpenText Brava! Desktop 16.6.3.84. By enticing a user to interact with a malicious page or file, attackers can exploit a flaw in DWF file parsing due to improper data validation.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31483

The CVSS v3.0 score for CVE-2021-31483 is 7.8, classifying it as a high-severity vulnerability with significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Attackers can execute code in the context of the affected process without requiring any user privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31483

This section provides more insights into the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

CVE-2021-31483 results from a heap-based buffer overflow within the parsing of DWF files due to the absence of adequate validation for user-supplied data lengths. This oversight allows attackers to execute arbitrary code within the current process context.

Affected Systems and Versions

OpenText Brava! Desktop version 16.6.3.84 is specifically impacted by CVE-2021-31483. Users of this version are vulnerable to remote code execution if exploited by malicious actors.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2021-31483, attackers must trick users into interacting with a crafted page or file. Upon successful exploitation, malicious actors can execute arbitrary code, compromising the system's security.

Mitigation and Prevention

Safeguarding against CVE-2021-31483 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices to enhance system resilience.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should refrain from accessing untrusted pages or files, especially those originating from unknown or suspicious sources. Implementing security best practices, such as network segmentation and endpoint protection, can help mitigate risks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly updating and patching software applications, including OpenText Brava! Desktop, is crucial to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities. Conducting security audits and user awareness training can also bolster the overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Developers should release timely patches addressing CVE-2021-31483 to eliminate the vulnerability. Organizations and users must promptly apply these patches to ensure their systems are secure against potential attacks.