CVE-2021-35521 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A path traversal vulnerability in Thrift command handlers in IDEMIA Morpho Wave Compact and VisionPass devices before 2.6.2 can be exploited by remote authenticated attackers to achieve denial of services and information disclosure through TCP/IP packets.

Understanding CVE-2021-35521

This CVE refers to a path traversal vulnerability found in specific IDEMIA devices that could lead to serious security risks.

What is CVE-2021-35521?

CVE-2021-35521 highlights a path traversal flaw in the Thrift command handlers of IDEMIA Morpho Wave Compact and VisionPass devices prior to version 2.6.2. Attackers with remote authenticated access can exploit this vulnerability to cause denial of services and expose sensitive information by sending malicious TCP/IP packets.

The Impact of CVE-2021-35521

The impact of this CVE is significant as it opens up possibilities for attackers to disrupt services and access confidential data, posing a serious threat to the security and integrity of the affected devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-35521

In this section, we will delve into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the Thrift command handlers of IDEMIA Morpho Wave Compact and VisionPass devices, allowing authenticated attackers to bypass security measures and execute malicious activities.

Affected Systems and Versions

The issue affects IDEMIA Morpho Wave Compact and VisionPass devices before version 2.6.2, indicating that devices running on earlier versions are vulnerable to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Remote authenticated attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted TCP/IP packets to the affected devices, enabling them to perform path traversal and extract sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate action to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2021-35521 and prevent potential security breaches.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the affected devices to version 2.6.2 or above to eliminate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities that could indicate exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly apply security patches and updates provided by IDEMIA to ensure the devices are protected against known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and address any security gaps that could be exploited by attackers.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and alerts from IDEMIA regarding CVE-2021-35521. Promptly apply any patches or updates released to secure the vulnerable devices against potential threats.