CVE-2021-45338 : Security Advisory and Response

Multiple privilege escalation vulnerabilities in Avast Antivirus prior to version 20.4 enable local users to gain elevated privileges, potentially leading to arbitrary file manipulation and security compromise.

Understanding CVE-2021-45338

Avast Antivirus is affected by multiple privilege escalation vulnerabilities, allowing a local user to exploit internal methods to escalate privileges.

What is CVE-2021-45338?

These vulnerabilities in Avast Antivirus allow a local user to elevate their privileges by utilizing powerful internal methods, risking arbitrary file deletion, writing, and security reset.

The Impact of CVE-2021-45338

The vulnerabilities could result in a local user gaining unauthorized access and control over the antivirus service, compromising the system's security and integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-45338

Avast Antivirus vulnerabilities details.

Vulnerability Description

Avast Antivirus vulnerabilities in versions before 20.4 allow a local user to exploit powerful internal methods, leading to privilege escalation and potential security breaches.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Avast Antivirus
Versions affected: Prior to 20.4

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerabilities involve local users leveraging internal methods of Avast Antivirus to escalate their privileges, enabling malicious activities like arbitrary file deletion and security manipulation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your system from CVE-2021-45338.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Avast Antivirus to version 20.4 or later.
Monitor and restrict local user permissions.
Implement principle of least privilege to minimize potential impacts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address security flaws.
Conduct security awareness training for users to prevent exploitation of vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to fix vulnerabilities and enhance system security.