External risk intelligence

Apache Struts Command Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2017-5638

A vulnerability in the Apache Struts Jakarta Multipart parser can allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands. This impacts organizations using affected versions of Apache Struts, posing a business risk through potential system compromise and data theft.

5Halo Surface Signal

Apache Struts

2.2.3 to before 2.3.322.5.0 to before 2.5.10.17.7.1.67.8.1.09.1.010.0.010.1.010.2.010.5.010.3.6.0.012.1.3.0.012.2.1.1.012.2.1.2.0before 6.6.5

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2017-5638

This vulnerability affects Apache Struts, a widely used framework for building web applications. It is exploitable via standard HTTP headers processed by the web application's entry point. Because it is reachable through common public-facing web traffic and does not require authentication, it is by design a highly reachable surface in typical internet-exposed web deployments.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

This vulnerability in the Apache Struts Jakarta Multipart parser affects organizations using specific versions of the Apache Struts framework. A flaw in how the parser handles file uploads allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands. This can lead to significant business risk by compromising systems and data.

  • Vulnerable file upload parser
  • Improper error handling allows command execution
  • System compromise and data theft

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

The Jakarta Multipart parser in Apache Struts contains a vulnerability that can be exploited through crafted HTTP headers during file uploads. Attackers can leverage incorrect exception handling to execute arbitrary commands. This could impact organizations by allowing attackers to gain unauthorized control over affected systems.

  • Exposure condition: Publicly accessible web applications.
  • Attacker starting point: Remote network.
  • Trigger and result: Malicious HTTP header leads to command execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands by sending specially crafted HTTP headers. The impact can include unauthorized access to systems, data theft, or disruption of services. Organizations that use affected Apache Struts versions should consider this a high-priority issue.

  • Likely attacker skill level: High
  • Required access or conditions: None
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands by uploading crafted files. The risk arises from how the system handles file uploads, potentially leading to unauthorized command execution on affected systems. The impact can include compromise of systems, data theft, or disruption of business operations.

  • Identify systems running affected software.
  • Restrict network access to vulnerable systems.
  • Apply vendor patches and confirm implementation.
  • Monitor systems for suspicious activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is Apache Struts and how is it used?

Apache Struts is a popular open-source framework used by developers to create enterprise-level Java web applications. It helps streamline the development of complex web interfaces and backend functionalities by providing a structured way to build web applications.

What type of weakness does CVE-2017-5638 represent?

CVE-2017-5638 is classified as CWE-755, which indicates a class of vulnerabilities related to improper exception handling. In this case, the Apache Struts Jakarta Multipart parser mishandles errors during file uploads, allowing attackers to inject and execute commands.

What are the preconditions for an attacker to exploit CVE-2017-5638?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted HTTP header during a file upload attempt. The vulnerability is not triggered if no file upload is attempted or if the HTTP headers are not manipulated in a specific way.

Who should be concerned about this Apache Struts vulnerability?

Organizations that run internet-facing web applications using affected versions of Apache Struts should be concerned. The Halo Surface Signal indicates this vulnerability is very likely to be exposed externally because it can be reached through standard, unauthenticated HTTP traffic.

What is the first step for organizations running this technology?

The initial step for organizations running affected Apache Struts versions is to identify all systems that use this software. After identification, applying the patches provided by the vendor and confirming their successful implementation is crucial.

References