CVE-2021-41216 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

TensorFlow is an open source platform for machine learning. The vulnerability in affected versions allows a heap buffer overflow in the

Transpose

function when

perm

contains negative elements without proper validation.

Understanding CVE-2021-41216

What is CVE-2021-41216?

This CVE entails a heap buffer overflow vulnerability in the

Transpose

function of TensorFlow, triggered by negative elements in the

perm

parameter.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41216

The vulnerability can result in a heap buffer overflow, affecting systems running the specified versions of TensorFlow. The severity is rated as MEDIUM, with a CVSS base score of 5.5.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41216

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises due to improper validation of indices in the

perm

parameter within the shape inference function for

Transpose

, leading to a heap buffer overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

TensorFlow >= 2.6.0 and < 2.6.1
TensorFlow >= 2.5.0 and < 2.5.2
TensorFlow < 2.4.4

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by providing negative elements in the

perm

parameter, triggering the heap buffer overflow in the

Transpose

function.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply the patches provided by TensorFlow for versions 2.7.0, 2.6.1, 2.5.2, and 2.4.4.
Avoid using negative elements in the

perm

parameter until updates are applied.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update TensorFlow to the latest version to ensure all security patches are in place.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely patching and updating of TensorFlow to mitigate the risk of heap buffer overflow vulnerabilities.