CVE-2021-42550 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2021-42550, a Remote Code Execution (RCE) flaw in logback < 1.2.9 and < 1.3.0-alpha11 with impact analysis and mitigation steps.
CVE-2021-42550 involves a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in logback versions 1.2.7 and prior. An attacker with configuration edit privileges can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary code from LDAP servers.
Understanding CVE-2021-42550
What is CVE-2021-42550?
In logback versions 1.2.7 and earlier, an attacker with configuration edit rights could create a malicious configuration, enabling the execution of arbitrary code sourced from LDAP servers.
The Impact of CVE-2021-42550
The vulnerability can result in an attacker executing arbitrary code, posing a significant risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-42550
Vulnerability Description
The flaw allows threat actors to execute arbitrary code by manipulating configurations loaded from LDAP servers.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Vendor: QOS.ch
- Product: logback
- Versions affected:
- Version < 1.2.9 (custom)
- Version < 1.3.0-alpha11 (custom)
Exploitation Mechanism
By crafting a malicious configuration, attackers can exploit the RCE vulnerability to execute code from LDAP servers.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to logback versions >=1.2.9 or >=1.3.0-alpha11 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly review and restrict configuration edit privileges.
- Monitor and validate configurations for malicious changes.
- Implement network segmentation to limit exposure.
Patching and Updates
Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to protect against known vulnerabilities.