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CVE-2021-21402: High Vulnerability in Jellyfin

A high-severity vulnerability in Jellyfin allows arbitrary file read from a server's file system. Impact is significant, especially for servers exposed to the Internet. Immediate patching is recommended.

HIGHPublic ExploitCVSS 7.7 · Published March 23, 2021

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Jellyfin, a Free Software Media System, has a critical vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-21402. This vulnerability allows arbitrary file read from a Jellyfin server's file system for versions prior to 10.7.1. It is particularly concerning because it can be exploited through well-crafted requests to specific endpoints. The risk is exacerbated for servers running on Windows and exposed to the public Internet. As this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive files, organizations are urgently advised to apply the security patch available in version 10.7.1.

The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.7, classifying it as high severity. The vulnerability is characterized by a low attack complexity and necessitates low privileges for exploitation. This means that it can be executed without significant effort by attackers, making it imperative for affected organizations to prioritize its remediation. The potential for high confidentiality impact further emphasizes the urgency of addressing this vulnerability.

Currently, there is no public exploit confirmed for this vulnerability, but it is crucial to remain vigilant due to the critical exploitability status indicated in threat intelligence reports. The Jellyfin team has implemented fixes in version 10.7.1, and users are strongly encouraged to update to this version as soon as possible to mitigate the risk.

Organizations should also enforce strict security permissions on their file systems as an additional precaution while transitioning to the updated version. By implementing these recommendations, organizations can significantly reduce their risk exposure.

Vulnerability Details

This vulnerability allows arbitrary file read from a Jellyfin server's file system. The affected versions are prior to 10.7.1. It is classified under CWE-22, which indicates improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The vulnerability was published on March 23, 2021, and has since been modified.

The CVSS score from GitHub is 7.7, and it indicates a high severity level, while the NVD reports a score of 6.5, categorizing it as medium severity. This discrepancy highlights the varying interpretations of impact and exploitability.

Technical Analysis

The root cause of this vulnerability lies in insufficient input validation, allowing crafted requests to access files outside of expected directories. The attack vector is over the network, requiring only low privileges to exploit, with no user interaction needed. The confidentiality impact is high as sensitive files can be accessed, while integrity and availability impacts are not applicable.

Risk & Impact Analysis

Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive files, which could lead to data breaches and compliance violations. The vulnerability's exposure is particularly concerning for organizations hosting Jellyfin servers on Windows operating systems accessible via the Internet.

Organizations should prioritize patching immediately due to the high-risk nature of this vulnerability. By not addressing this issue, organizations expose themselves to potential data theft and compromise.

Signal

Status

Known Exploit

Yes

Public PoC

Yes

Actively Exploited

No

Ransomware Use

No

Affected Versions

The affected versions of Jellyfin are all versions prior to 10.7.1. It is critical for users of Jellyfin to update to this version to mitigate the vulnerability and protect against potential exploits.

Mitigation & Remediation

Patch updates are available in Jellyfin version 10.7.1. Organizations should immediately upgrade to this version. In cases where immediate updates cannot be applied, it’s advised to enforce strict security permissions on the file system to restrict access. For additional support, consider engaging in penetration testing to evaluate security posture.

Detection Guidance

Monitor logs for unusual file access patterns that indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected file reads or access attempts to sensitive directories, should be investigated promptly. Implement network signatures that can detect unauthorized access attempts to Jellyfin services.

AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight

CVE-2021-21402 highlights a significant risk for Jellyfin users, particularly those operating in environments with exposure to the Internet. The threat landscape shows an increasing trend in attacks targeting media systems, and this case reinforces the necessity for robust security measures.

Security teams should learn from this incident and ensure that regular assessments are conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities. Maintaining an up-to-date knowledge of emerging threats is crucial. For strategies to enhance security measures, consider reading about vulnerability management programs and the importance of penetration testing methodology in identifying and mitigating risks.

Finally, organizations should stay informed about the ongoing developments in Jellyfin security by regularly checking for updates and participating in community discussions related to security patches and vulnerabilities.

Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.

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