CVE-2021-37189 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This article provides an overview of CVE-2021-37189, a vulnerability discovered on Digi TransPort Gateway devices. It explains the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to this CVE.

Understanding CVE-2021-37189

CVE-2021-37189 is a security issue affecting Digi TransPort Gateway devices up to version 5.2.13.4. The devices fail to set the Secure attribute for sensitive cookies during HTTPS sessions, potentially leading to the exposure of these cookies over insecure HTTP connections.

What is CVE-2021-37189?

The vulnerability in CVE-2021-37189 arises from the lack of Secure attribute implementation for cookies in HTTPS sessions on Digi TransPort Gateway devices. This oversight can result in the transmission of sensitive cookie information in clear text over unencrypted HTTP channels, jeopardizing user data security.

The Impact of CVE-2021-37189

The impact of CVE-2021-37189 is significant as it exposes sensitive cookies to potential interception by malicious actors. This could lead to unauthorized access to user accounts, data breaches, and other security risks for individuals and organizations using affected Digi TransPort Gateway devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-37189

CVE-2021-37189 primarily involves the mishandling of cookies within HTTPS sessions on Digi TransPort Gateway devices. The lack of the Secure attribute configuration for cookies allows them to be transmitted over insecure HTTP connections, compromising the confidentiality and integrity of the data.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the failure of Digi TransPort Gateway devices to enforce the Secure flag for cookies, leading to their exposure over plaintext HTTP connections. Attackers can exploit this weakness to intercept the cookies and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Affected Systems and Versions

Digi TransPort Gateway devices running firmware versions up to 5.2.13.4 are impacted by CVE-2021-37189. Users of these devices are advised to apply necessary security measures to address this vulnerability and protect their systems from exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2021-37189 involves intercepting the unsecured cookies transmitted over HTTP sessions on vulnerable Digi TransPort Gateway devices. By capturing and analyzing these cookies, threat actors can launch attacks to compromise user privacy and extract sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-37189, immediate actions are necessary to secure Digi TransPort Gateway devices and prevent potential unauthorized access or data breaches.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should ensure that sensitive cookies are transmitted securely by implementing the Secure attribute for cookies on Digi TransPort Gateway devices. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for any unusual activity can help detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, it is essential for organizations and individuals to prioritize cybersecurity practices, such as regular security assessments, firmware updates, and employee training to enhance overall security posture and prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Vendor-supplied patches and updates should be promptly applied to Digi TransPort Gateway devices to address CVE-2021-37189 and strengthen the security of the affected systems. Timely patching is crucial to closing security gaps and safeguarding against potential cyber threats.