CVE-2021-36279 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A detailed analysis of CVE-2021-36279, a vulnerability found in Dell EMC PowerScale OneFS versions 8.2.x - 9.2.x that could potentially expose critical resources to unauthorized users.

Understanding CVE-2021-36279

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability, its impact, affected systems, and the recommended mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-36279?

CVE-2021-36279 is a vulnerability in Dell EMC PowerScale OneFS versions 8.2.x - 9.2.x due to incorrect permission assignment. It allows users with specific privileges to access sensitive cluster information.

The Impact of CVE-2021-36279

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.8, indicating a high severity level. Attackers can exploit this flaw to gain unauthorized access to critical resources, potentially leading to data breaches and system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-36279

This section provides a deeper dive into the technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the incorrect permission assignment in Dell EMC PowerScale OneFS versions 8.2.x - 9.2.x, enabling users with specific privileges to view privileged cluster information.

Affected Systems and Versions

Dell EMC PowerScale OneFS versions 8.2.x - 9.2.x are impacted by this vulnerability. Users operating on these versions are advised to take immediate action to mitigate risks.

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized users with ISI_PRIV_LOGIN_SSH or ISI_PRIV_LOGIN_CONSOLE privileges can leverage this vulnerability to access critical information about the cluster, posing a significant security risk.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-36279, users are recommended to implement the following mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to the latest patched version of Dell EMC PowerScale OneFS to eliminate the vulnerability.
Restrict access permissions for privileged accounts to minimize the risk of unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor system logs and user activities for any suspicious behavior.
Conduct security training sessions to educate users on best practices for maintaining a secure environment.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Dell and apply patches promptly to mitigate known vulnerabilities.