CVE-2021-3223 is a high-severity vulnerability identified in Node-RED Dashboard versions before 2.26.2. This vulnerability allows directory traversal via the ui_base/js/..%2f path, enabling unauthorized access to sensitive files. The CVSS score of 7.5 indicates a high level of risk to affected systems, making it crucial for organizations using this software to address this issue promptly.
The vulnerability exploits a directory traversal issue that can lead to unauthorized file reading. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability without the need for authentication, as no privileges are required to exploit it. The potential for high confidentiality impact emphasizes the urgency of remediation.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the associated risks. The risk to organizations includes potential exposure of confidential information, which could have significant implications for security and compliance.
As of the latest updates, no public exploits are confirmed for this vulnerability, but its high CVSS score and proven exploitability underscore the need for vigilance and prompt action.
Vulnerability Details
Node-RED-Dashboard before 2.26.2 allows ui_base/js/..%2f directory traversal to read files. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-22, which pertains to improper restriction of operations within the bounds of a memory buffer.
The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 score of 7.5, reflecting its high severity. It is characterized by a network attack vector with low attack complexity and no required privileges or user interaction.
The affected product is the Node-RED Dashboard, and the vulnerability was published on January 26, 2021.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the inadequate validation of path inputs, allowing attackers to manipulate directory paths to gain unauthorized access to files. The attack vector is the network, meaning that attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely.
Given the low attack complexity, attackers can easily exploit this vulnerability without sophisticated techniques. No privileges are required, and no user interaction is needed, which significantly increases the risk. The impact on confidentiality is high, as unauthorized file access can expose sensitive information. However, the integrity and availability impacts are assessed as none.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk associated with CVE-2021-3223 is significant, as organizations using vulnerable versions of Node-RED Dashboard may be at risk of unauthorized file accesses, leading to potential data leaks. This vulnerability's high confidentiality impact means that sensitive information may be exposed, which can have severe consequences for organizational security.
The urgency for organizations to patch this vulnerability is underscored by its high CVSS score of 7.5 and the fact that it is not listed in the KEV catalog, indicating that while it may not yet be actively exploited, it could become a target for attackers.
Organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle to mitigate the risks associated with potential exploitation.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerable versions of Node-RED Dashboard include all versions prior to 2.26.2. Organizations must ensure that they upgrade to this version or later to mitigate the risk presented by CVE-2021-3223.
Mitigation & Remediation
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should update Node-RED Dashboard to version 2.26.2 or later. This patch addresses the directory traversal issue and secures the application against unauthorized file access.
In cases where immediate patching is not feasible, implementing strict network controls to limit access to the application can help mitigate risks until the patch is applied.
Additionally, organizations should monitor for any unusual access patterns and review their configuration to ensure that directory traversal attacks are not possible.
For further guidance, organizations may refer to our penetration testing services to proactively identify and mitigate similar vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor their logs for indicators of unauthorized file access attempts. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected access to sensitive files, should be flagged for further investigation.
Network signatures should be established to detect attempts to exploit this vulnerability, and any system changes should be closely monitored to identify potential exploitation.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2021-3223 serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices, particularly regarding input validation. As organizations increasingly rely on web-based applications, vulnerabilities like directory traversal can expose sensitive data and lead to significant breaches.
Security teams should take this opportunity to review their security posture, ensuring that applications are built with security in mind from the ground up. Regular security assessments and penetration testing methodology can help identify and remediate vulnerabilities before they are exploited.
Organizations are encouraged to stay informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities, adapting their security strategies accordingly. Leveraging resources like threat intelligence can provide crucial insights into potential risks and attack vectors.
For more insights on securing applications, organizations can explore our vulnerability management program to enhance their overall security posture.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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