CVE-2021-29560: TensorFlow Heap Buffer Overflow in tf.raw_ops.RaggedTensorToTensor
Summary
CVE-2021-29560: TensorFlow is an end-to-end open source platform for machine learning. Affects tensorflow across 5 version ranges.
>= 2.2.0, < 2.3.0rc0
< 2.2.0rc0
>= 2.3.0, < 2.3.4
>= 2.4.0, < 2.4.3
< a84358aa12f0b1518e606095ab9cfddbf597c121
Fixed in 4 releases; the minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- tensorflow · Bitnami
- tensorflow-cpu · PyPI
- tensorflow-gpu · PyPI
The same CVE-2021-29560 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
TensorFlow is an end-to-end open source platform for machine learning. It provides a comprehensive ecosystem of tools, libraries, and resources for developing and deploying machine learning models. TensorFlow is widely used in various domains, including research, industry, and academia. This vulnerability affects the TensorFlow package, specifically the tf.raw_ops.RaggedTensorToTensor function.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in TensorFlow arises from a heap buffer overflow in the tf.raw_ops.RaggedTensorToTensor function. The implementation of this function uses the same index to access two arrays in parallel. As the shape of the input arguments is controlled by the user, an attacker can trigger a heap out-of-bounds access when the parent_output_index is shorter than row_split. This can lead to arbitrary code execution or a denial of service attack. The vulnerability has been assigned the identifier CVE-2021-29560.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 2.21.0 as of 22 Oct 2026
pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.21.0"Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the versions below are the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you can't move to the latest
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
< 2.2.0rc02.2.0rc0pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.2.0rc0" -
>= 2.2.0, < 2.3.0rc02.3.0rc0pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.3.0rc0" -
>= 2.3.0, < 2.3.42.3.4pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.3.4" -
>= 2.4.0, < 2.4.32.4.3pip install --upgrade "tensorflow==2.4.3"
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is recommended to apply the official patch or update to the latest version of TensorFlow.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in TensorFlow's tf.raw_ops.RaggedTensorToTensor function can be exploited by an attacker to trigger a heap buffer overflow. This can have serious consequences, including arbitrary code execution or a denial of service attack. It is crucial for users of TensorFlow to update their installations to the latest patched version or apply the official fix. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for tensorflow →
FAQ
TensorFlow is an open source platform for machine learning that provides tools and libraries for developing and deploying machine learning models.
This vulnerability can allow an attacker to trigger a heap buffer overflow, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or a denial of service attack.
The vulnerability affects TensorFlow versions 2.1.4, 2.2.3, 2.3.3, 2.4.2, and prior versions.
No, there is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is recommended to update to the latest patched version of TensorFlow.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the TensorFlow advisory database: [link to advisory database]
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for tensorflow.
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