CVE-2021-3673 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability was found in Radare2 in version 5.3.1 that could result in resource exhaustion and denial of service (DoS) due to improper input validation. Read on to understand the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps associated with CVE-2021-3673.

Understanding CVE-2021-3673

This section delves into the details of the CVE-2021-3673 vulnerability in Radare2 version 5.3.1.

What is CVE-2021-3673?

CVE-2021-3673 is a vulnerability identified in Radare2 version 5.3.1. It stems from improper input validation when processing a crafted Little-Endian (LE) binary. This flaw could be exploited by an attacker to trigger resource exhaustion and lead to a DoS condition.

The Impact of CVE-2021-3673

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it opens the door for malicious actors to disrupt the normal functioning of systems running the affected Radare2 version 5.3.1. By causing resource exhaustion and initiating DoS attacks, threat actors can potentially render a system inoperable.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-3673

In this section, we explore the technical aspects of CVE-2021-3673, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a lack of proper input validation during the reading of specially crafted LE binaries, leading to resource exhaustion and potential DoS attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Radare2 version 5.3.1 is the specific version affected by this vulnerability. Systems running this version are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious LE binaries that trigger the flawed input validation process. By exploiting this weakness, threat actors can exhaust resources and disrupt system functionality.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-3673.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users and administrators are advised to update Radare2 to a non-vulnerable version, if available. Additionally, monitoring for any signs of DoS attacks can help in early detection and response.

Long-Term Security Practices

Ensuring timely security updates and patches, implementing proper input validation mechanisms, and conducting regular security assessments can help in fortifying systems against similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial to stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply patches released by Radare2 to address CVE-2021-3673 and bolster the security posture of systems.