External risk intelligence

JBoss Application Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2017-12149

A vulnerability in JBoss Application Server allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by sending crafted serialized data. This poses a significant business risk, potentially leading to unauthorized system access and data compromise. Organizations should assess their exposure and apply necessary updates.

4Halo Surface Signal

Deserialization

Redhat Jboss Enterprise Application Platform

5.0.05.0.15.1.05.1.15.1.25.2.05.2.15.2.2

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2017-12149

The vulnerability affects a JBoss Application Server, which is commonly deployed as an internet-facing application server or web-hosting platform. While deployment configurations vary, these services are frequently exposed to the internet to host web applications or provide API endpoints, making them a common target for external network-based interaction.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The JBoss Application Server component within Red Hat Enterprise Application Platform is vulnerable. The flaw allows for the execution of arbitrary code by processing specially crafted serialized data. This could lead to significant business risk, including unauthorized system access and data compromise.

  • Vulnerable component: JBoss Application Server
  • Core weakness: Unrestricted deserialization of data
  • Main business impact: Arbitrary code execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

The JBoss Application Server, when configured with the HTTP Invoker, can be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code. This is achieved by sending specially crafted serialized data to the server, which bypasses security checks in the ReadOnlyAccessFilter's doFilter method. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to gain control over the affected system.

  • Exposure occurs through the HTTP Invoker.
  • Attacker sends crafted serialized data.
  • Arbitrary code execution results.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability in JBoss Application Server allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code by sending specially crafted serialized data. The attack vector is the network, and it does not require any user interaction or prior access to the system. The potential damage includes complete system compromise, making it a significant business risk.

  • Attackers need no special skill.
  • No access or conditions required.
  • High business risk, treat as urgent.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability presents a critical risk, allowing external attackers to execute arbitrary code by sending specially crafted serialized data to the JBoss Application Server. Organizations utilizing affected Red Hat Enterprise Application Platform versions must prioritize understanding their exposure to this threat. Swift action is required to mitigate the potential for unauthorized code execution and protect sensitive data and systems.

  • Identify all JBoss Application Server instances.
  • Isolate or restrict network access.
  • Apply vendor patches and validate.
  • Monitor for suspicious activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is JBoss Application Server and its role within Red Hat Enterprise Application Platform?

JBoss Application Server is a core component of Red Hat Enterprise Application Platform, functioning as a robust Java-based application server. It is designed to host and execute enterprise-level applications, including web services and other critical business software.

How does CVE-2017-12149 lead to remote code execution via deserialization?

The vulnerability stems from a deserialization flaw (CWE-502) in the HTTP Invoker's ReadOnlyAccessFilter. This filter fails to adequately restrict the types of data it deserializes, enabling an attacker to submit specially crafted serialized data that triggers arbitrary code execution on the server.

What specific conditions allow an attacker to exploit the JBoss Application Server vulnerability?

Exploitation requires an attacker to send specifically crafted serialized data over the network to the JBoss Application Server. This is possible because the ReadOnlyAccessFilter within the HTTP Invoker does not perform proper type checking during deserialization, bypassing security measures.

What is the relevance of CVE-2017-12149, and how does it present a significant threat?

This vulnerability is highly relevant due to its critical severity and the potential for complete system compromise. It allows for arbitrary code execution without requiring authentication or special privileges, posing a significant business risk that necessitates urgent attention.

What are the essential steps for responding to the JBoss Application Server vulnerability?

Organizations must identify all JBoss Application Server instances, restrict network access where possible, and promptly apply vendor-provided patches. Continuous monitoring for suspicious activity after remediation is also crucial to ensure ongoing security.

References