CVE-2021-41201 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

TensorFlow is an open-source machine learning platform. In affected versions, there is uninitialized access in

EinsumHelper::ParseEquation()

due to incorrect assignment of flags, leading to potential security risks.

Understanding CVE-2021-41201

What is CVE-2021-41201?

TensorFlow versions >= 2.4.4, >= 2.5.0, < 2.5.2, and >= 2.6.0, < 2.6.1 are impacted by uninitialized variable access in

EinsumHelper::ParseEquation()

.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41201

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 7.8 (High severity) and affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low privileges required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41201

Vulnerability Description

During execution,

EinsumHelper::ParseEquation()

fails to correctly set flags, causing uninitialized variable access when assumptions about flag states are made.

Affected Systems and Versions

TensorFlow versions >= 2.6.0, < 2.6.1
TensorFlow versions >= 2.5.0, < 2.5.2
TensorFlow versions < 2.4.4

Exploitation Mechanism

The issue arises from the incorrect handling of flags within the

EinsumHelper::ParseEquation()

function, leading to potential uninitialized variable access.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update TensorFlow to version 2.7.0 when available.
Apply the respective fixes in TensorFlow 2.6.1, 2.5.2, and 2.4.4.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for TensorFlow security updates.
Follow secure coding practices to minimize uninitialized access vulnerabilities.
Conduct thorough testing when making assumptions about variable states.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of patches and updates released by TensorFlow to address this vulnerability.