CVE-2021-41150 : What You Need to Know

Tough provides a set of Rust libraries and tools for using and generating the update framework (TUF) repositories. The tough library, prior to version 0.12.0, does not properly sanitize delegated role names, leading to potential file overwriting vulnerabilities anywhere on the system. This CVE addresses the improper sanitization of delegated role names in tough.

Understanding CVE-2021-41150

What is CVE-2021-41150?

The vulnerability in Tough library versions prior to 0.12.0 allows malicious actors to overwrite files with role metadata by exploiting improper sanitization of delegated role names during repository caching or loading.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41150

The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.2 (High), affecting confidentiality, integrity, and leading to potential file manipulation. Attack complexity is high with low privileges required but no user interaction needed.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41150

Vulnerability Description

Files ending with .json extension could be overwritten with role metadata

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: tough
Vendor: awslabs
Versions Affected: < 0.12.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: High
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Changed
Vector String: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:N

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to version 0.12.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for updates and security advisories
Implement secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Patch to version 0.12.0 to address the vulnerability