CVE-2021-32836 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Learn about CVE-2021-32836, a high-severity pre-auth unsafe deserialization vulnerability in ZStack that can lead to remote code execution. Find out how to mitigate the risk and secure your systems effectively.
ZStack, an open-source IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) software, has been found to have a pre-auth unsafe deserialization vulnerability in versions before 3.10.12 and 4.1.6. This flaw in the REST API allows an attacker to control the request body, providing both class name and data for deserialization, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.
Understanding CVE-2021-32836
This section dives deep into the nature of the vulnerability and its impact.
What is CVE-2021-32836?
CVE-2021-32836 highlights a pre-auth unsafe deserialization vulnerability in ZStack, making it susceptible to Denial of Service attacks and even pre-auth remote code execution if a suitable gadget is available.
The Impact of CVE-2021-32836
The vulnerability poses a high risk, with a CVSS base score of 7.5 (High). Attackers can potentially exploit this flaw to compromise the system's availability, leading to severe consequences.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-32836
Let's explore the technical aspects of this vulnerability in detail.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from improper control of code generation, specifically in handling deserialization requests in ZStack's REST API.
Affected Systems and Versions
ZStack versions prior to 3.10.12 and 4.1.6 are impacted by this vulnerability, exposing systems running on these versions to exploitation.
Exploitation Mechanism
By manipulating the request body, attackers can specify the class name and data to be deserialized, allowing them to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems.
Mitigation and Prevention
Discover how to safeguard your systems against CVE-2021-32836.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is crucial to apply security patches provided by ZStack promptly to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Additionally, monitor for any unusual network activity that might indicate a compromise.
Long-Term Security Practices
Ensure regular security assessments and audits are conducted to identify and address vulnerabilities promptly. Implementing security best practices and staying informed about security advisories is essential.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about the latest updates and patches released by ZStack to address this vulnerability. Timely implementation of patches is crucial to ensure the security of your infrastructure.