CVE-2021-31493 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an overview of CVE-2021-31493, a vulnerability found in OpenText Brava! Desktop version 16.6.3.84 that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code. User interaction is required to exploit this flaw, making it critical for affected users to take immediate action.

Understanding CVE-2021-31493

CVE-2021-31493 is a high-severity vulnerability that exists within the parsing of DXF files in OpenText Brava! Desktop version 16.6.3.84. Attackers can exploit this flaw to achieve arbitrary code execution on targeted systems.

What is CVE-2021-31493?

This vulnerability in OpenText Brava! Desktop 16.6.3.84 enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by tricking users into visiting malicious websites or opening malicious files. The flaw stems from improper validation of user-supplied data during DXF file parsing, leading to a memory corruption condition.

The Impact of CVE-2021-31493

The impact of CVE-2021-31493 is significant, with a CVSS base score of 7.8 (high severity). The vulnerability requires no privileges and user interaction for exploitation, posing a high risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-31493

CVE-2021-31493 has a low attack complexity and local attack vector. The vulnerability's exploitation necessitates user interaction but does not require any special privileges. Successful exploitation can result in high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data during DXF file parsing in OpenText Brava! Desktop 16.6.3.84, leading to a memory corruption condition that can be leveraged by attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

OpenText Brava! Desktop version 16.6.3.84 is the affected version by CVE-2021-31493. Users of this specific version are at risk of remote code execution by malicious actors.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by enticing users to interact with a specially crafted page or file, triggering arbitrary code execution in the context of the current process.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against CVE-2021-31493, immediate steps should be taken by affected users to mitigate risks and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update OpenText Brava! Desktop to a patched version, avoid interacting with suspicious files or links, and follow security best practices to enhance protection against malicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing security measures such as regular software updates, security awareness training, and network segmentation can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial for users to apply official patches released by OpenText to address CVE-2021-31493. Regularly updating software and maintaining a proactive security posture can mitigate risks associated with exploitable vulnerabilities.