CVE-2021-33577 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2021-33577, a vulnerability discovered in Cleo LexiCom 5.5.0.0 that allows bypassing sender identification in AS2 messages.

Understanding CVE-2021-33577

CVE-2021-33577 is a security flaw in Cleo LexiCom 5.5.0.0 that enables attackers to evade the sender identification requirement in AS2 messages by manipulating the Content-Type of the message.

What is CVE-2021-33577?

An issue was found in Cleo LexiCom 5.5.0.0 where the sender's obligation to confirm their identity in an AS2 message could be circumvented by altering the Content-Type to text/plain.

The Impact of CVE-2021-33577

This vulnerability could potentially allow malicious actors to send AS2 messages without proper encryption and signing, leading to unauthorized access or tampering of sensitive data.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-33577

Here are the technical specifics of CVE-2021-33577:

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in Cleo LexiCom 5.5.0.0 permits the sender of an AS2 message to avoid identifying themselves through encryption and signing by simply changing the Content-Type to text/plain.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Cleo LexiCom version 5.5.0.0.

Exploitation Mechanism

By modifying the Content-Type of an AS2 message to text/plain, threat actors can bypass the sender authentication measures in Cleo LexiCom 5.5.0.0.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against CVE-2021-33577, consider the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Cleo LexiCom to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Monitor AS2 message exchanges for any unusual activity indicating exploitation of the flaw.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enforce strict validation of sender identification in AS2 message exchanges.
Implement encryption and signing mechanisms that cannot be bypassed through simple Content-Type modifications.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security patches and updates for Cleo LexiCom to address known vulnerabilities promptly and enhance overall system security.