CVE-2021-45042 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

In HashiCorp Vault and Vault Enterprise before versions 1.7.7, 1.8.x before 1.8.6, and 1.9.x before 1.9.1, an authenticated user could cause a denial of service in clusters using the Integrated Storage backend.

Understanding CVE-2021-45042

In this section, we will delve into the details of CVE-2021-45042.

What is CVE-2021-45042?

CVE-2021-45042 is a vulnerability found in HashiCorp Vault and Vault Enterprise versions prior to 1.7.7, 1.8.6, and 1.9.1. The flaw allowed authenticated users to trigger a denial of service on the storage backend.

The Impact of CVE-2021-45042

The vulnerability could be exploited by authorized users with write permissions to a kv secrets engine, leading to a panic condition and denial of service in the storage backend. The earliest affected version is 1.4.0.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-45042

Let's examine the technical aspects of CVE-2021-45042.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in clusters using the Integrated Storage backend of HashiCorp Vault allowed authenticated users to disrupt the storage backend, resulting in a denial of service condition.

Affected Systems and Versions

HashiCorp Vault versions before 1.7.7, 1.8.6, and 1.9.1
The flaw impacts clusters utilizing the Integrated Storage backend

Exploitation Mechanism

Authorized users with write permissions to a kv secrets engine could exploit the vulnerability, causing a panic and denial of service in the storage backend.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-45042.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to HashiCorp Vault versions 1.7.7, 1.8.6, or 1.9.1
Restrict user permissions to minimize the impact of potential attacks

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update access control policies
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities

Patching and Updates

Apply the latest patches and updates provided by HashiCorp to address the vulnerability