Is CVE-2021-40842 actively exploited?

No active exploitation of CVE-2021-40842 has been confirmed so far. Continue monitoring, as exploit status can change.

Can CVE-2021-40842 be exploited remotely?

Yes. CVE-2021-40842 is exploitable remotely over the network (CVSS attack vector: Network).

What is the CVSS score of CVE-2021-40842?

CVE-2021-40842 has a CVSS score of 9.8 (CRITICAL).

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CRITICAL

CVE-2021-40842

CWE-89Published: October 13, 2021· Updated: Jun 17, 2026

9.8

CVSS v3.1

Official Description

Proofpoint Insider Threat Management Server contains a SQL injection vulnerability in the Web Console. The vulnerability exists due to improper input validation on the database name parameter required in certain unauthenticated APIs. A malicious URL visited by anyone with network access to the server could be used to blindly execute arbitrary SQL statements on the backend database. Version 7.12.0 and all versions prior to 7.11.2 are affected.

NVD Source

Technical Analysis

CVE-2021-40842 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.

The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.

A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.

From a weakness classification perspective (CWE-89): SQL injection vulnerabilities allow attackers to manipulate database queries, potentially exposing or modifying sensitive data.