CVE-2021-44832 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-44832 affecting Apache Log4j2 versions 2.0-beta7 through 2.17.0. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
Apache Log4j2 versions 2.0-beta7 through 2.17.0 (excluding 2.3.2 and 2.12.4) are vulnerable to remote code execution (RCE) via a JDBC Appender with JNDI LDAP data sources.
Understanding CVE-2021-44832
What is CVE-2021-44832?
Apache Log4j2 versions 2.0-beta7 through 2.17.0 are susceptible to an RCE attack using a JDBC Appender with a JNDI LDAP data source when controlled by an attacker. The vulnerability is fixed in versions 2.17.1, 2.12.4, and 2.3.2 by restricting JNDI data source names.
The Impact of CVE-2021-44832
This vulnerability allows attackers to execute remote code on systems using the affected Log4j2 versions. An attacker controlling the LDAP server can exploit this to execute arbitrary code in the context of the application.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-44832
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises when a configuration utilizes a JDBC Appender with a JNDI LDAP data source URI, providing attackers control of the target LDAP server to execute remote code.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Apache Log4j2
- Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
- Vulnerable Versions: 2.0-beta7 through 2.17.0 (excluding 2.3.2 and 2.12.4)
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by utilizing a JDBC Appender with a JNDI LDAP data source URI, allowing them to gain control of the target LDAP server and execute remote code.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade: Update Log4j2 to versions 2.17.1, 2.12.4, or 2.3.2 to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Restrict Access: Limit access to the LDAP server from untrusted sources.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regular Updates: Keep Log4j2 and other software up to date with the latest security patches.
- Monitoring: Implement robust monitoring and logging to detect any suspicious activity.
- Security Training: Educate users and developers on secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Patch Log4j2 to versions 2.17.1, 2.12.4, or 2.3.2 to address the vulnerability.