CVE-2021-21828CWE-120

A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the XML Decompression DecodeTreeBlock functionality of AT&T Labs Xmill 0.7

High · published August 20, 2021

CVSS v3.0
8.1
EPSS
1%
Percentile
66.2
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

⚡ A heap-based buffer overflow lurking in AT&T Labs Xmill could turn your XML processing into a chaotic explosion! 🔥 Think of it like a crowded elevator that suddenly exceeds its weight limit—when too much data is crammed in, it could cause the whole system to crash under the pressure. If an attacker sends a specially crafted file, they could potentially manipulate the program’s execution, leading to unauthorized access or even arbitrary code execution. This could disrupt your systems and expose sensitive data, making it a significant risk to your operations.

Put simply

Think of it like a crowded elevator that suddenly exceeds its weight limit—when too much data is crammed in, it could cause the whole system to crash under the pressure. This vulnerability arises from the XML Decompression DecodeTreeBlock function, which improperly handles memory allocation. When a malicious file is processed, it can overflow the heap and overwrite adjacent memory, potentially altering program behavior.

What to do

If an attacker sends a specially crafted file, they could potentially manipulate the program’s execution, leading to unauthorized access or even arbitrary code execution. This could disrupt your systems and expose sensitive data, making it a significant risk to your operations. To shield yourself from this threat, update to the latest version of Xmill that addresses this vulnerability. It’s also wise to implement strict file validation checks and limit the types of XML files processed. Stay vigilant with routine security audits! You've got this! By taking these steps, you’ll boost your security and keep your systems safe! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS v3.0
8.1 · HIGH
Vector
CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.01136 · 66.2th percentile
Weakness
CWE-120 · Buffer Copy without Checking Size of Input ('Classic Buffer Overflow')
Published
2021-08-20T21:03Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 20 AUG 21:03Z
    A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the XML Decompression DecodeTreeBlock functionality of AT&T Labs Xmill 0.7
    cvelistv5