CVE-2021-41249 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

GraphQL Playground is a GraphQL IDE for developing GraphQL-focused applications. Versions older than 1.7.28 are affected by a vulnerability allowing code injection, leading to potential XSS attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-41249

GraphQL Playground versions prior to 1.7.28 are susceptible to an XSS vulnerability that can result in code injection and dynamic attack surfaces.

What is CVE-2021-41249?

GraphQL Playground is an IDE for building GraphQL applications
Vulnerable versions can be exploited through compromised schema responses
Allows for dynamic XSS attacks leading to code injection
Triggered by loading a malicious schema or clicking links to malicious servers

The Impact of CVE-2021-41249

CVSS Score: 7.1 (High Severity)
Attack Complexity: High, Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
No privileges required for exploitation, User interaction required

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41249

GraphQL Playground vulnerability details

Vulnerability Description

Older versions exposed to compromised schema responses
Allows for injection of malicious GraphQL type names
Potential for code injection through operation autocomplete

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: graphql-playground
Vendor: graphql
Versions Affected: < 1.7.28

Exploitation Mechanism

Loading malicious schemas in GraphQL Playground
Clicking on links to installations with malicious servers

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to secure systems from CVE-2021-41249

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade graphql-playground-react to version 1.7.28 or later
Avoid loading schemas from untrusted sources

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries
Conduct security audits and code reviews

Patching and Updates

Apply latest patches and updates