CVE-2021-43071 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover the impact and mitigation of CVE-2021-43071, a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in Fortinet FortiWeb, allowing unauthorized code execution. Learn how to prevent exploitation and apply security patches.
A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in Fortinet FortiWeb versions allows attackers to execute unauthorized code or commands.
Understanding CVE-2021-43071
What is CVE-2021-43071?
A heap-based buffer overflow in Fortinet FortiWeb versions enables attackers to execute unauthorized code or commands through crafted HTTP requests to the LogReport API controller.
The Impact of CVE-2021-43071
This vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 8.3, with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Attackers can exploit this issue without user interaction, leading to unauthorized code execution.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-43071
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability resides in Fortinet FortiWeb versions 6.4.1 and 6.4.0, as well as versions 6.3.15 and below, and 6.2.6 and below, allowing for a heap-based buffer overflow.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Fortinet FortiWeb
- Versions: 6.4.1, 6.4.0, 6.3.16, 6.3.15, and earlier
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted HTTP requests to the LogReport API controller, leading to unauthorized code execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply security patches provided by Fortinet promptly.
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
- Restrict access to vulnerable systems.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.
- Regularly update and patch software to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure all Fortinet FortiWeb instances are updated to versions that address the heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability.