CVE-2021-41214 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

TensorFlow is an open-source platform for machine learning. The vulnerability resides in the shape inference code for

tf.ragged.cross

, potentially leading to undefined behavior due to binding a reference to

nullptr

in certain versions. This CVE has a CVSS base score of 7.8.

Understanding CVE-2021-41214

TensorFlow versions >= 2.4.4 and < 2.6.1 are affected by a reference binding issue to

nullptr

in

tf.ragged.cross

.

What is CVE-2021-41214?

The vulnerability pertains to TensorFlow, where certain versions allow shape inference code for

tf.ragged.cross

to bind a reference to

nullptr

, leading to undefined behavior.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41214

CVSS Base Score: 7.8 (High Severity)
Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Local
Availability Impact: High
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Unchanged

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41214

The technical details of the vulnerability are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

The shape inference code for

tf.ragged.cross

in affected versions binds a reference to

nullptr

, causing undefined behavior.

Affected Systems and Versions

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

Exploitation Mechanism

The issue occurs due to binding a reference to

nullptr

in the shape inference code for

tf.ragged.cross

.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate and long-term steps to prevent exploitation:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update TensorFlow to version 2.7.0 once available
Apply the fix by cherrypicking the commit on TensorFlow 2.6.1, 2.5.2, and 2.4.4

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update TensorFlow to the latest versions
Monitor security advisories for patches and updates
Follow secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities
Conduct routine security assessments
Educate developers on secure coding practices
Implement least privilege access control

Patching and Updates

Always apply the latest patches and updates provided by TensorFlow to mitigate the vulnerability.