CVE-2021-38112 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Amazon AWS WorkSpaces client versions 3.0.10 through 3.1.8 on Windows are vulnerable to argument injection in the workspaces:// URI handler, potentially leading to remote code execution due to a Chromium Embedded Framework vulnerability. The issue has been addressed in version 3.1.9.

Understanding CVE-2021-38112

This CVE identifies a critical vulnerability in Amazon AWS WorkSpaces client for Windows, allowing attackers to execute remote code by exploiting an argument injection flaw.

What is CVE-2021-38112?

The CVE-2021-38112 vulnerability exists in versions 3.0.10 through 3.1.8 of the Amazon AWS WorkSpaces client on Windows. It arises from improper input handling in the workspaces:// URI handler.

The Impact of CVE-2021-38112

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could result in remote code execution on the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or further network compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-38112

The following technical aspects of the CVE are of importance:

Vulnerability Description

Argument injection in the workspaces:// URI handler of Amazon AWS WorkSpaces client versions 3.0.10 through 3.1.8 on Windows can be exploited by attackers for remote code execution due to a Chromium Embedded Framework vulnerability.

Affected Systems and Versions

Amazon AWS WorkSpaces client versions 3.0.10 through 3.1.8 on the Windows platform are confirmed to be impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can leverage the argument injection vulnerability in the workspaces:// URI handler to initiate remote code execution, ultimately compromising the target system.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-38112, consider the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Amazon AWS WorkSpaces client to version 3.1.9 or higher to eliminate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity indicating exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong input validation mechanisms to prevent similar injection attacks in the future.
Educate users on safe browsing practices and avoiding suspicious links or downloads.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply security patches and updates provided by Amazon AWS to ensure the latest security fixes are in place and vulnerabilities are mitigated.