CVE-2021-37671 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

TensorFlow is an open-source platform for machine learning. The vulnerability in TensorFlow versions >= 2.3.4 and < 2.5.1 allows an attacker to cause undefined behavior by binding a reference to a null pointer in specific operations.

Understanding CVE-2021-37671

This CVE pertains to a vulnerability in TensorFlow that can lead to undefined behavior due to a reference binding to a null pointer in certain operations.

What is CVE-2021-37671?

In affected TensorFlow versions, an attacker exploiting this vulnerability can trigger undefined behavior by binding a reference to a null pointer in

tf.raw_ops.Map*

and

tf.raw_ops.OrderedMap*

operations.

The Impact of CVE-2021-37671

The impact of this CVE is rated as HIGH, with a CVSS base score of 7.8. It poses risks to confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low privileges required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-37671

The vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate

indices

, potentially leading to unexpected outcomes in TensorFlow operations.

Vulnerability Description

By binding a reference to a null pointer in specific TensorFlow operations, attackers can exploit the vulnerability to cause undefined behavior.

Affected Systems and Versions

TensorFlow versions >= 2.3.4 and < 2.5.1 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating

indices

in

tf.raw_ops.Map*

and

tf.raw_ops.OrderedMap*

operations.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2021-37671, it is essential to take immediate action and implement long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update TensorFlow to version 2.6.0 where the vulnerability has been patched.
Apply the provided fixes in TensorFlow 2.5.1, 2.4.3, and 2.3.4.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update TensorFlow to the latest version. Follow security advisories and apply patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all systems running affected versions of TensorFlow are updated to versions where the vulnerability has been patched.