CVE-2021-37404 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Apache Hadoop versions 2.9.0 to 2.10.1, 3.0.0 to 3.1.4, 3.2.0 to 3.2.2, and 3.3.0 to 3.3.1 are affected by a potential heap buffer overflow in the libhdfs native code. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service. It was discovered by Igor Chervatyuk. Users are advised to upgrade to Apache Hadoop 2.10.2, 3.2.3, 3.3.2, or higher.

Understanding CVE-2021-37404

This section provides an overview of the CVE-2021-37404 vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

What is CVE-2021-37404?

CVE-2021-37404 is a heap buffer overflow vulnerability in the libhdfs native library of Apache Hadoop, affecting multiple versions of the software. Opening a file path provided by a user without proper validation could lead to a denial of service or potential arbitrary code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2021-37404

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows an attacker to exploit the heap buffer overflow to execute arbitrary code or disrupt the normal operation of Apache Hadoop instances. This could result in serious security breaches and loss of data integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-37404

This section outlines the technical details of the CVE-2021-37404 vulnerability, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the libhdfs native code of Apache Hadoop, where a potential heap buffer overflow can occur when opening a user-provided file path without proper validation. This can be exploited by attackers to trigger a denial of service condition or execute arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Apache Hadoop versions 2.9.0 to 2.10.1, 3.0.0 to 3.1.4, 3.2.0 to 3.2.2, and 3.3.0 to 3.3.1 are affected by CVE-2021-37404. Users running these versions should take immediate action to address this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by providing a malicious file path to the libhdfs native code without proper validation. This can lead to a heap buffer overflow, enabling the execution of arbitrary code or causing a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section provides guidance on mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2021-37404 and preventing potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to upgrade their Apache Hadoop installations to versions 2.10.2, 3.2.3, 3.3.2, or higher to address the heap buffer overflow vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper input validation mechanisms can help prevent similar security issues in the future.

Long-Term Security Practices

Incorporating secure coding practices, regular security assessments, and timely software updates are crucial for maintaining the security of Apache Hadoop deployments. Continuous monitoring and threat intelligence can also help organizations identify and mitigate security risks proactively.

Patching and Updates

Staying informed about security advisories from Apache Software Foundation and promptly applying patches and updates is essential for addressing known vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-37404. Regularly reviewing and updating security configurations can enhance the overall resilience of Apache Hadoop environments.