CVE-2021-44142 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the Samba vfs_fruit module, potentially allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Understanding CVE-2021-44142

What is CVE-2021-44142?

The CVE-2021-44142 vulnerability affects Samba versions prior to 4.13.17, 4.14.12, and 4.15.5 with vfs_fruit configured, allowing remote attackers with write access to execute arbitrary code.

The Impact of CVE-2021-44142

Attackers with write access can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of smbd, typically root.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-44142

Vulnerability Description

The Samba vfs_fruit module uses extended file attributes to enhance compatibility with Apple SMB clients and Netatalk 3 AFP servers. However, out-of-bounds heap read and write are possible due to specially crafted extended file attributes.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: Samba
Product: Samba
Affected Versions: Versions prior to 4.13.17, 4.14.12, and 4.15.5

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker needs write access to extended file attributes to exploit the vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to Samba versions 4.13.17, 4.14.12, or 4.15.5.
Apply vendor patches and security advisories.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and systems.
Restrict write access to critical components.

Patching and Updates

Implement relevant patches and updates provided by Samba.