CVE-2021-37704 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

PhpFastCache is a high-performance backend cache system. Versions prior to 6.1.5, 7.1.2, and 8.0.7 may expose

phpinfo()

if the

/vendor

directory is unprotected. This vulnerability allows unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Understanding CVE-2021-37704

This CVE highlights a security issue in PhpFastCache that could lead to the exposure of

phpinfo()

due to unprotected

/vendor

directories.

What is CVE-2021-37704?

CVE-2021-37704 exposes a vulnerability where unauthorized actors can access sensitive information through PhpFastCache's

phpinfo()

function in certain unsecured versions.

The Impact of CVE-2021-37704

The impact of this CVE is rated as medium severity, with a CVSS base score of 5.4, allowing attackers to view sensitive information if the

/vendor

directory is unprotected.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-37704

This section provides a detailed overview of the vulnerability, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

PhpFastCache versions < 6.1.5, >= 7.0.0 and < 7.1.2, >= 8.0.0 and < 8.0.7 are affected. A lack of protection for the

/vendor

directory can lead to exposure of

phpinfo()

, risking sensitive information disclosure.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions prior to 6.1.5, 7.1.2, and 8.0.7 of PhpFastCache are affected by this vulnerability, while older versions v5 and v4 are not supported or patched.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by accessing the unprotected

/vendor

directory which may expose

phpinfo()

, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

As a user or administrator, it is crucial to take immediate action to secure your systems and prevent any unauthorized access.

Immediate Steps to Take

Protect the

/vendor

directory from public access to prevent exposure of

phpinfo()

and sensitive information.

Long-Term Security Practices

Ensure that all directories containing sensitive information are adequately secured and access is restricted based on the principle of least privilege.

Patching and Updates

Update PhpFastCache to the latest patched versions (8.0.7, 7.1.2, 6.1.5) to mitigate the risk of exposing

phpinfo()

and other sensitive data to unauthorized actors.