External risk intelligence

Apache Struts Remote Code Execution Vulnerability.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2017-9791

The Apache Struts 1 plugin has a vulnerability that may permit remote code execution when processing a malicious field value. This poses a risk of unauthorized system access and control for affected organizations.

4Halo Surface Signal

Remote Code Execution

Apache Struts

2.3.12.3.1.12.3.1.22.3.32.3.42.3.4.12.3.72.3.82.3.122.3.142.3.14.12.3.14.22.3.14.32.3.152.3.15.12.3.15.22.3.15.32.3.162.3.16.12.3.16.22.3.16.32.3.202.3.2...

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2017-9791

Apache Struts is a widely used framework for developing Java web applications. Because it functions as an application framework handling web requests, it is commonly deployed as an internet-facing web application component, making the vulnerable input path reachable by external users.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The Apache Struts 1 plugin contains a vulnerability that could allow for remote code execution. This occurs when a malicious field value is sent in a raw message to the ActionMessage component within the software. The potential impact could include unauthorized access and control over affected systems.

  • Struts 1 plugin
  • Malicious field value execution
  • Remote code execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

The Struts 1 plugin in Apache Struts is susceptible to remote code execution. This vulnerability can be exploited when a malicious field value is passed within a raw message to the ActionMessage. Successful exploitation could allow an attacker to gain control over affected systems.

  • Exposure via network access.
  • Attacker sends malicious message.
  • Unauthenticated remote code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

The Apache Struts 1 plugin presents a critical remote code execution vulnerability. Threat actors could leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, potentially leading to widespread compromise. Given the ease of exploitation and the potential for severe business disruption, this vulnerability should be treated with extreme urgency.

  • Attackers with any skill level.
  • No authentication or special conditions needed.
  • High business risk and urgent.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

The organization's Apache Struts 1 plugin may be vulnerable to remote code execution due to a flaw in handling malicious field values. This vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The business risk includes potential compromise of sensitive data and disruption of services.

  • Identify all instances of the Apache Struts 1 plugin.
  • Restrict network access to affected systems.
  • Update to a vendor-provided fix and confirm its implementation.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Apache Struts 1 plugin and what purpose does it serve in web application development?

The Apache Struts 1 plugin is a component of the Apache Struts framework, which is used for building Java web applications. It facilitates the creation of web interfaces and manages user interactions within these applications.

What is the underlying weakness that enables remote code execution in CVE-2017-9791?

CVE-2017-9791 exploits an "Improper Input Validation" (CWE-20) weakness, where the software fails to adequately scrutinize incoming data. Specifically, a malicious value sent in a message to the ActionMessage component can be executed as code by the server.

How can an attacker trigger the remote code execution vulnerability in Apache Struts 1 plugin?

An attacker can trigger this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted malicious field value within a raw message to the ActionMessage component. This can be done remotely without any prior authentication, as the vulnerability is exposed via network access.

What is the relevance of CVE-2017-9791, considering its impact and exploitability?

CVE-2017-9791 is highly relevant due to its critical severity and ease of exploitation. It allows for unauthenticated remote code execution, posing a significant risk to affected systems and potentially leading to widespread compromise and business disruption. The Halo Surface Signal indicates this is a likely threat due to the nature of the affected component.

What practical steps should be taken to address the Apache Struts 1 plugin vulnerability?

To address this vulnerability, organizations should first identify all instances of the Apache Struts 1 plugin. Implementing network access restrictions to affected systems is advisable as a temporary measure. The primary response involves updating to a vendor-provided fix and verifying its successful implementation.

References