CVE-2021-32466 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides insights into CVE-2021-32466, a privilege escalation vulnerability in Trend Micro HouseCall for Home Networks version 5.3.1225 and below.

Understanding CVE-2021-32466

CVE-2021-32466 is an uncontrolled search path element privilege escalation vulnerability in Trend Micro HouseCall for Home Networks, which could allow an attacker to escalate privileges by placing a malicious library in a specific directory.

What is CVE-2021-32466?

CVE-2021-32466 is a security vulnerability in Trend Micro HouseCall for Home Networks version 5.3.1225 and earlier that enables an attacker to raise privileges by inserting a crafted file in a designated directory, facilitating the loading of a malevolent library. However, it is essential to note that the attacker must initially attain the capability to execute code with low privileges on the targeted system to leverage this vulnerability.

The Impact of CVE-2021-32466

Exploitation of CVE-2021-32466 could result in an attacker gaining escalated privileges on the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or further compromise of the system's security.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-32466

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Trend Micro HouseCall for Home Networks versions 5.3.1225 and below stems from an uncontrolled search path element, enabling an attacker to execute a privilege escalation attack by manipulating specific directories.

Affected Systems and Versions

Trend Micro HouseCall for Home Networks version 5.3.1225 and prior are impacted by CVE-2021-32466.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must first have the ability to execute code with low privileges on the targeted system before placing a custom file to initiate the privilege escalation process.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-32466, follow the preventive measures outlined below.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Trend Micro HouseCall for Home Networks to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Avoid executing untrusted code on the system to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict unnecessary access rights.
Regularly monitor and audit directory contents to detect any unauthorized or malicious files.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches provided by Trend Micro for HouseCall for Home Networks to safeguard against known vulnerabilities.