CVE-2021-44477 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-44477 affecting GE Gas Power ToolBoxST Version v04.07.05C. Understand the XXE vulnerability impact, mitigation steps, and recommended security practices.
GE Gas Power ToolBoxST Version v04.07.05C is vulnerable to an XML external entity (XXE) attack that can lead to data disclosure via an out-of-band attack.
Understanding CVE-2021-44477
GE Gas Power ToolBoxST is affected by an XXE vulnerability, posing a risk of arbitrary data retrieval on the affected node.
What is CVE-2021-44477?
The vulnerability in GE Gas Power ToolBoxST occurs due to improper handling of XML input, allowing attackers to execute an XXE attack to access sensitive data.
The Impact of CVE-2021-44477
- Confidentiality Impact: High
- Integrity Impact: None
- Availability Impact: None
- Severity: High (CVSS Base Score: 7.5)
Technical Details of CVE-2021-44477
CVE-2021-44477 involves:
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability stems from improper restriction of XML external entity references, enabling attackers to exploit the XML parser's input handling.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: ToolBoxST
- Vendor: GE Gas Power
- Versions Affected: All versions less than 07.09.07C
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is triggered when unsanitized input is parsed by the XML parser in the XML project/template file.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-44477:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to ToolBoxST OS Version 07.09.07C or above.
- Follow password protection and network segmentation measures from GEH-6839 Secure Deployment Guide.
- Utilize SDI Secure Mode for enhanced protection.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement network segmentation and controls network firewalls.
- Use VPNs for remote access and keep them updated.
- Deploy defense-in-depth strategies with IDS/IPS, firewalls, and NAC.
- Maintain anti-malware and EDR solutions.
- Disable unnecessary remote access services like RDP.
- Establish backup and restore processes for incident response.
- Maintain strict account provisioning and access control.
- Monitor for unusual network behavior.
Patching and Updates
Ensure GE Gas Power ToolBoxST is updated with the patched versions mentioned to mitigate CVE-2021-44477.