CVE-2021-33026 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the details of CVE-2021-33026 affecting Flask-Caching extension version 1.10.1, enabling potential remote code execution or local privilege escalation. Learn about the impact, mitigation steps, and prevention methods.
Flask-Caching extension through version 1.10.1 for Flask has a vulnerability that relies on Pickle for serialization, potentially leading to remote code execution or local privilege escalation.
Understanding CVE-2021-33026
This CVE highlights a security issue in Flask-Caching extension version 1.10.1 that could allow attackers to execute Python code by manipulating cache storage.
What is CVE-2021-33026?
The vulnerability in Flask-Caching extension version 1.10.1 is due to the use of Pickle for serialization, enabling attackers to construct malicious payloads and execute arbitrary code remotely or escalate privileges locally.
The Impact of CVE-2021-33026
If exploited, an attacker gaining access to the cache storage, such as filesystem, Memcached, or Redis, could potentially poison the cache with crafted payloads leading to Python code execution. However, successful exploitation depends on certain conditions which may limit the actual risk.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-33026
The technical details of CVE-2021-33026 provide insights into the vulnerability affecting Flask-Caching extension:
Vulnerability Description
Flask-Caching extension version 1.10.1's reliance on Pickle for serialization poses a significant risk by allowing attackers to execute Python code through crafted payloads in the cache storage.
Affected Systems and Versions
All systems using Flask-Caching extension up to version 1.10.1 are vulnerable to this issue.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by gaining access to the cache storage and manipulating payloads to execute arbitrary Python code.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-33026, certain steps and practices should be followed:
Immediate Steps to Take
Users should consider updating the Flask-Caching extension to a patched version to eliminate this vulnerability. Additionally, limiting access to cache storage can reduce the risk of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing secure coding practices, regular security audits, and monitoring cache storage for unusual activities can enhance long-term security.
Patching and Updates
Regularly monitoring for security updates related to Flask-Caching and promptly applying patches can help prevent potential exploits.