CVE-2021-36194 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2021-36194, a vulnerability found in Fortinet FortiWeb versions 6.4.1, 6.4.0, and 6.3.0 through 6.3.15 that could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code via specially crafted requests.

Understanding CVE-2021-36194

CVE-2021-36194 is a stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in the API controllers of FortiWeb, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution by authenticated attackers.

What is CVE-2021-36194?

Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in FortiWeb versions 6.4.1, 6.4.0, and 6.3.0 through 6.3.15 may allow an authenticated attacker to achieve arbitrary code execution through specially crafted requests.

The Impact of CVE-2021-36194

With a CVSS base score of 8.8/10 and high severity ratings for confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-36194

This section covers specific technical details of the CVE-2021-36194 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to multiple stack-based buffer overflows in the API controllers of affected Fortinet FortiWeb versions, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Fortinet FortiWeb versions 6.4.1, 6.4.0, and 6.3.0 through 6.3.15 are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

An authenticated attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted requests, triggering the stack-based buffer overflows and achieving arbitrary code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we discuss steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-36194.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should apply security updates provided by Fortinet for the affected versions to prevent exploitation.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities that could indicate an attempted attack.

Long-Term Security Practices

Deploy network intrusion detection systems to detect and block malicious activities.
Regularly update and patch systems to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Fortinet has released patches to address the vulnerability in FortiWeb versions 6.4.1, 6.4.0, and 6.3.0 through 6.3.15, and organizations are advised to apply these updates immediately for enhanced security.