CVE-2021-23027 is a medium-severity vulnerability discovered in several versions of F5 BIG-IP products, specifically in the Configuration utility. This vulnerability allows attackers to conduct DOM-based cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks, enabling the execution of JavaScript in the context of the currently logged-in user. The affected versions include 16.0.x before 16.0.1.2, 15.1.x before 15.1.3.1, and 14.1.x before 14.1.4.3.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.1, classifying it as medium severity. The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized actions taken by attackers, leading to data exposure or manipulation. Organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability in their patch management process.
Currently, there is no known public exploit for this vulnerability, which indicates that it may not have been actively targeted yet. Nonetheless, the potential impact of an attack makes it crucial for organizations to implement the available patches as soon as possible.
Organizations using the affected F5 products should take immediate action to mitigate this risk by updating to the patched versions. This will help prevent any possible exploitation of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2021-23027 states that it allows an attacker to execute JavaScript in the context of the currently logged-in user due to a DOM-based XSS vulnerability present in an undisclosed page of the BIG-IP Configuration utility. The affected versions are specifically those that have not been patched to 16.0.1.2, 15.1.3.1, and 14.1.4.3.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 classification, which pertains to improper neutralization of input during web page generation. The attack vector is classified as network-based, with low complexity and no privileges required for exploitation, though user interaction is necessary.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the improper handling of user input by the BIG-IP Configuration utility. Attackers can exploit this flaw to inject malicious scripts, which would execute when unsuspecting users interact with the affected page. Given that user interaction is required, the attack complexity remains low, making it feasible for attackers with minimal skills.
As the attack vector is network-based, a potential attacker could exploit this vulnerability by enticing a user to visit a malicious URL while authenticated to the BIG-IP Configuration utility. This scenario highlights the importance of user awareness and the need for organizations to educate their users about phishing and social engineering tactics.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized actions taken by attackers, which could lead to the exposure of sensitive information or unauthorized changes to application configurations. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to perform actions on behalf of the user, severely compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the affected systems.
Given the medium CVSS score of 6.1, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle. Although the vulnerability is not actively exploited, the potential for impact makes it imperative to remediate it effectively.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of F5 BIG-IP products include:
1. 16.0.x before 16.0.1.2
2. 15.1.x before 15.1.3.1
3. 14.1.x before 14.1.4.3
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations are urged to apply the latest patches provided by F5 to address this vulnerability. Specifically, upgrade to the following versions:
1. Upgrade to 16.0.1.2 or later.
2. Upgrade to 15.1.3.1 or later.
3. Upgrade to 14.1.4.3 or later.
For organizations unable to immediately upgrade, implement web application firewalls (WAF) and other network controls to mitigate potential risks until patches can be applied. Regular security testing and monitoring should also be conducted to detect any exploitation attempts.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual activity, particularly around the BIG-IP Configuration utility. Look for abnormal JavaScript executions or unexpected user interactions. Additionally, behavioral anomalies in user accounts could indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2021-23027 represents an ongoing risk within the F5 BIG-IP ecosystem. Organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in their security measures to prevent exploitation. This vulnerability exemplifies the necessity of maintaining up-to-date software and conducting periodic security assessments.
For continuous security improvement, consider engaging in regular continuous security testing and implementing a robust vulnerability management program to identify and remediate security weaknesses.
For further insights on vulnerability management strategies, explore our article on vulnerability management program design and enhance your organization's security posture.
Finally, organizations should stay informed about emerging threats and patterns in the security landscape through resources like our penetration testing methodology to better understand and mitigate risks.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
.webp)