CVE-2021-35449 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2021-35449, a privilege escalation flaw in Lexmark Universal Print Driver enabling users to execute DLLs during printer addition, leading to SYSTEM escalation.
A privilege escalation vulnerability affecting the Lexmark Universal Print Driver versions 2.15.1.0 and below has been identified. This vulnerability allows a low privileged user to execute a DLL during the add printer process, leading to privileges escalation to SYSTEM.
Understanding CVE-2021-35449
This CVE relates to a security issue in the Lexmark Universal Print Driver that enables a standard user to escalate their privileges by executing a malicious DLL.
What is CVE-2021-35449?
The vulnerability in the Lexmark Universal Print Driver versions 2.15.1.0 and below permits a standard user to leverage a DLL during the add printer process, ultimately elevating their privileges to SYSTEM.
The Impact of CVE-2021-35449
If exploited, this vulnerability can allow a threat actor to gain escalated privileges on the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access or control.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-35449
This section covers a brief overview of the vulnerability, the affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in the Lexmark Universal Print Driver allows a low privileged user to execute a DLL of their choice during the printer adding process, resulting in a privilege escalation to SYSTEM.
Affected Systems and Versions
The impacted versions include the Lexmark Universal Print Driver 2.15.1.0 and below, G2 driver 2.7.1.0 and below, G3 driver 3.2.0.0 and below, and G4 driver 4.2.1.0 and below.
Exploitation Mechanism
By utilizing the affected driver during the print addition procedure, a standard user can execute a DLL, thereby gaining SYSTEM-level privileges.
Mitigation and Prevention
In this section, we discuss the immediate steps to take, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates.
Immediate Steps to Take
To mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2021-35449, ensure to restrict access to the affected drivers and closely monitor any unusual activities on the system.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing the principle of least privilege, regularly updating software, and conducting security trainings for users can help enhance the overall security posture.
Patching and Updates
It is crucial to apply the necessary patches released by Lexmark to address this vulnerability. Stay informed about security advisories and promptly install updates to protect your systems.