CVE-2021-41308 : Security Advisory and Response

CVE-2021-41308, published on October 25, 2021, addresses a Broken Access Control vulnerability in Atlassian Jira Server and Data Center, allowing authenticated non-administrator remote attackers to modify File Replication settings.

Understanding CVE-2021-41308

This CVE involves an improper authorization issue in Atlassian's Jira Server and Data Center.

What is CVE-2021-41308?

CVE-2021-41308 pertains to a security flaw that enables authorized yet non-administrator remote threat actors to manipulate File Replication configurations through the

ReplicationSettings!default.jspa

endpoint.

The Impact of CVE-2021-41308

This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to alter File Replication settings on affected versions of Jira Server and Data Center, potentially leading to unauthorized access or manipulation of sensitive data.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-41308

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows authenticated non-administrator attackers to edit File Replication settings through a Broken Access Control flaw in the

ReplicationSettings!default.jspa

endpoint.

Affected Systems and Versions

Jira Server: Versions before 8.6.0, from 8.7.0 to 8.13.12, and from 8.14.0 to 8.20.1 are impacted.
Jira Data Center: Same versions as Jira Server are affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with authenticated access but not administrative privileges can exploit the vulnerability by manipulating File Replication configurations.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems against this CVE involves taking immediate and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Jira Server and Jira Data Center to versions that include patches for CVE-2021-41308.
Monitor and audit File Replication settings for unauthorized changes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement the principle of least privilege by restricting user access based on job requirements.
Regularly review and update access control policies to prevent unauthorized actions.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches released by Atlassian promptly to address the vulnerability.