CVE-2021-41273 : Security Advisory and Response

Pterodactyl is an open-source game server management panel that was susceptible to a Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) vulnerability. This could allow malicious users to trigger email spam or generate unexpected auto-deployment tokens. The issue was addressed in version 1.6.6.

Understanding CVE-2021-41273

This CVE relates to a CSRF vulnerability in the Pterodactyl game server management panel, impacting versions below 1.6.6.

What is CVE-2021-41273?

Pterodactyl, a panel for managing game servers, had improperly configured CSRF protection on specific routes.
Attackers could exploit this to execute CSRF-based attacks on endpoints for sending test emails and generating node auto-deployment tokens.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41273

Base Score: 4.3 (Medium Severity)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: Low
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Unchanged
The vulnerability does not expose data to attackers but can lead to email spam or unexpected token generation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41273

This section outlines the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Improperly configured CSRF protections on specific routes of the Pterodactyl panel.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: Pterodactyl panel
Vendor: Pterodactyl
Affected Versions: < 1.6.6

Exploitation Mechanism

Malicious users could exploit the CSRF vulnerability to trigger email spam and generate unexpected auto-deployment tokens.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to secure systems and prevent exploits.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to version 1.6.6 of the Pterodactyl panel to address the CSRF vulnerability.
Review and validate security configurations to prevent CSRF attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation and secure coding practices.
Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate vulnerabilities.
Educate staff and users on security best practices to mitigate risks.

Patching and Updates

Apply all relevant patches and updates promptly to ensure system security and protect against known vulnerabilities.