CVE-2021-41316 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the impact of CVE-2021-41316 on Device42 Main Appliance. Learn about the security vulnerability allowing unauthorized file writes as root, mitigation steps, and version affected.
Device42 Main Appliance before version 17.05.01 is vulnerable to a security issue in its Nmap Discovery utility, allowing an attacker to overwrite arbitrary files as the root user on the Remote Collector.
Understanding CVE-2021-41316
This CVE describes a vulnerability in the Device42 Main Appliance that can be exploited by an attacker with specific permissions within the Nmap Discovery utility.
What is CVE-2021-41316?
The vulnerability arises from the lack of input sanitization in the Nmap Discovery utility, enabling an attacker to manipulate inputs and execute unauthorized actions.
The Impact of CVE-2021-41316
The exploit allows an attacker, authorized to modify jobs run by the utility, to inject additional arguments that could lead to the overwrite of critical files with root user privileges on the Remote Collector.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-41316
This section delves into the specific technical aspects of the CVE in question.
Vulnerability Description
The Device42 Main Appliance lacks proper input sanitization in the Nmap Discovery utility, leading to potential unauthorized file overwrites by a malicious actor.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Device42 Main Appliance
- Vendor: Device42
- Versions affected: <ul><li>Before 17.05.01</li></ul>
Exploitation Mechanism
By injecting additional arguments into jobs within the Nmap Discovery utility, an attacker could overwrite critical files as the root user on the Remote Collector.
Mitigation and Prevention
In response to CVE-2021-41316, adopting security measures is crucial for safeguarding systems.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade the Device42 Main Appliance to version 17.05.01 or newer.
- Implement strict access controls for the Nmap Discovery utility.
- Monitor and audit file system changes for unusual activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration tests.
- Train personnel on secure coding practices and threat awareness.
- Keep systems and software updated with the latest security patches.
- Employ network segmentation and least privilege access policies.
- Consider network intrusion detection and prevention systems.
Patching and Updates
- Deploy patches provided by Device42 promptly to address the vulnerability and enhance system security.