CVE-2021-31421: Parallels Desktop Toolgate Directory Traversal Arbitrary File Deletion Vulnerability

Published Apr 29, 2021
·
Updated

This vulnerability allows local attackers to delete arbitrary files on affected installations of Parallels Desktop 16.1.1-49141. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute high-privileged code on the target guest system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the Toolgate component. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied path prior to using it in file operations. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to delete arbitrary files in the context of the hypervisor. Was ZDI-CAN-12129.

Other sources

This vulnerability allows local attackers to delete arbitrary files on affected installations of Parallels Desktop. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute high-privileged code on the target guest system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the Toolgate component. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied path prior to using it in file operations. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to delete arbitrary files in the context of the hypervisor.

Affected Software

2 affected components
Parallels Parallels Desktop=16.1.1-49141
Parallels Desktop

Event History

Apr 29, 2021
CVE Published
via MITRE·04:31 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·04:31 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Mar 24, 2025
Advisory Published
via ZDI·07:01 PM
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is CVE-2021-31421?

CVE-2021-31421 is a vulnerability that allows local attackers to delete arbitrary files on affected installations of Parallels Desktop 16.1.1-49141.

2

How does CVE-2021-31421 affect Parallels Desktop?

CVE-2021-31421 affects installations of Parallels Desktop 16.1.1-49141.

3

What is the severity of CVE-2021-31421?

CVE-2021-31421 has a severity level of medium.

4

How can I fix CVE-2021-31421?

To fix CVE-2021-31421, update Parallels Desktop to a version that is not affected by the vulnerability and follow the recommendations provided by Parallels.

5

Where can I find more information about CVE-2021-31421?

You can find more information about CVE-2021-31421 in the Parallels knowledge base article and the Zero Day Initiative advisory.

Contact

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