CVE-2021-41264 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

OpenZeppelin Contracts is a library for smart contract development. Upgradeable contracts using

UUPSUpgradeable

versions >= 4.1.0 and < 4.3.2 may be vulnerable to an attack affecting uninitialized implementation contracts. A fix is available in version 4.3.2.

Understanding CVE-2021-41264

What is CVE-2021-41264?

CVE-2021-41264 discloses a vulnerability in the OpenZeppelin Contracts library related to the use of

UUPSUpgradeable

, impacting versions between 4.1.0 and 4.3.2.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41264

The vulnerability poses a critical risk with a CVSS base score of 9.8, allowing attackers to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41264

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in

UUPSUpgradeable

implementation contracts can be exploited, potentially causing security breaches and unauthorized access.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: openzeppelin-contracts
Vendor: OpenZeppelin
Versions: >= 4.1.0, < 4.3.2

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: None

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to version 4.3.2 of

@openzeppelin/contracts

or

@openzeppelin/contracts-upgradeable

If upgrade is not possible, initialize implementation contracts using

UUPSUpgradeable

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update contracts and libraries
Conduct security audits

Patching and Updates

Apply the provided fix in version 4.3.2 of the affected modules