CVE-2021-40722 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A comprehensive overview of the AEM Forms Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference vulnerability identified in Adobe Experience Manager.

Understanding CVE-2021-40722

This section delves into the details surrounding the vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-40722?

The AEM Forms Cloud Service offering, along with version 6.5.10.0 (and earlier) of Adobe Experience Manager, is susceptible to an XML External Entity (XXE) injection flaw. This vulnerability could be exploited by malicious actors to achieve Remote Code Execution (RCE).

The Impact of CVE-2021-40722

The critical nature of this vulnerability can have severe repercussions:

CVSS Base Score: 9.8 (Critical)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged

Technical Details of CVE-2021-40722

Insight into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the improper handling of XML External Entity References (XXE), labeled as CWE-611.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems running Adobe Experience Manager versions <= 6.5.10.0 are impacted:

Product: Experience Manager
Vendor: Adobe
Versions: 6.5.10.0 (and below)
Version Type: Custom

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability could be exploited by injecting malicious XML External Entities, potentially leading to Remote Code Execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Measures to address the CVE-2021-40722 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Adobe Experience Manager to a non-vulnerable version.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.
Implement strict input validation mechanisms.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security training for employees on identifying and reporting vulnerabilities.
Conduct periodic security assessments and penetration testing.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches released by Adobe promptly.
Keep systems and software up to date to prevent vulnerabilities.