CVE-2021-39217 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting OpenMage LTS, an e-commerce platform. Prior to versions 19.4.22 and 20.0.19, the Custom Layout feature enabled admin users to execute arbitrary commands via block methods, which could lead to serious security implications. The vulnerability carries a CVSS score of 7.2, indicating a high level of risk due to the potential for unauthorized command execution.
Risk to organizations includes the ability for an attacker with admin privileges to manipulate the platform, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized access, and severe service disruptions. Given the nature of this vulnerability, organizations utilizing OpenMage should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the risks associated with this flaw.
The vulnerability was published on January 27, 2023, and has been classified under CWE-77, indicating that it involves improper neutralization of special elements used in a command. The fact that it allows command execution poses a significant threat, especially in a web-based e-commerce environment where security is paramount.
As of now, there are no known public exploits or evidence of active exploitation for this vulnerability. However, organizations should remain vigilant and monitor their systems for any signs of unauthorized access or manipulation.
Organizations should address this vulnerability promptly in their patch management processes to maintain the security integrity of their e-commerce platforms.
Vulnerability Details
The official description for CVE-2021-39217 states that OpenMage LTS, an e-commerce platform, allows admin users prior to versions 19.4.22 and 20.0.19 to execute arbitrary commands via block methods due to improper sanitization. This results in a high CVSS score of 7.2, indicating the severity of potential impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
The attack vector is classified as NETWORK, with low attack complexity and high privileges required, meaning only users with admin access can exploit this vulnerability. There is no user interaction required, which makes it particularly dangerous.
The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all rated as HIGH, indicating a total compromise of the system can occur if this vulnerability is exploited. Organizations using affected versions of OpenMage LTS should consider this a critical issue.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2021-39217 stems from the Custom Layout feature, which improperly allows admin users to execute arbitrary commands. This vulnerability is particularly concerning due to its low attack complexity and the fact that it can be exploited remotely without user interaction.
The high privilege requirement means that only authenticated users with administrative rights can exploit this vulnerability. However, if an attacker gains access to an admin account, they could execute commands that may compromise the entire system.
Given the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact, this vulnerability can lead to devastating consequences, including data leaks, unauthorized changes to the application, and potential service outages.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk associated with CVE-2021-39217 is substantial. Organizations using vulnerable versions of OpenMage LTS face potential exploitation that could lead to unauthorized access and control over their e-commerce platforms. The blast radius is significant, as this could affect customer data, financial transactions, and overall service integrity.
Urgency assessment based on the CVSS score indicates that this vulnerability should be addressed immediately in order to prevent potential attacks. Organizations should prioritize patching OpenMage to versions 19.4.22 and 20.0.19 to mitigate risks.
Given the potential for high impact, organizations must reevaluate their security postures and ensure that administrative access is tightly controlled and monitored.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of OpenMage include all versions prior to 19.4.22 and 20.0.19. Organizations should ensure they are running the latest versions to avoid exposure to this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations must upgrade OpenMage to versions 19.4.22 or 20.0.19, which contain the necessary patches. If immediate upgrading is not possible, consider implementing additional security measures such as restricting admin access and monitoring for unusual activities.
For further guidance on securing applications, organizations may find value in conducting a thorough application security assessment to identify any additional vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for any indication of unauthorized command execution attempts. Behavioral anomalies such as unexpected changes in the admin dashboard or unusual activities from admin accounts should be flagged and investigated.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2021-39217 represents a significant risk for organizations using OpenMage LTS. The ability for admin users to execute arbitrary commands can lead to severe implications if exploited. Security teams should prioritize understanding and remediating this vulnerability.
For best practices in security and vulnerability management, organizations should consider designing a robust vulnerability management program that encompasses regular assessments and timely patching.
Additionally, understanding the trends in vulnerability exploitation can aid in strategic planning. Security teams can benefit from resources such as the 2025 Vulnerability Exposure Severity Trends report to stay ahead of potential threats.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
.webp)