External risk intelligence

JAI-EXT: Network Script Compilation Allows Remote Code Execution.

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2022-24816

Organizations using JAI-EXT, particularly within the GeoServer project, face a risk of remote code execution. Attackers can exploit this by sending crafted network requests that execute malicious Jiffle scripts, potentially leading to unauthorized system access and data compromise. Mitigation involves updating to patch

4Halo Surface Signal

Code Injection

Geosolutionsgroup Jai Ext

before 1.1.22

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2022-24816

The vulnerability affects GeoServer, a widely deployed software platform frequently used as an internet-facing geospatial web service, API, or portal. Because the flaw is reachable when the application processes network-provided scripts, it is commonly exposed in standard deployments that handle public mapping or data requests.

CVSS vector

CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The JAI-EXT component, used in projects like GeoServer, contains a weakness that allows specially crafted network requests to execute arbitrary code. This occurs when Jiffle scripts are compiled into Java code and then executed. The primary business impact is the potential for attackers to gain unauthorized control over affected systems, leading to data breaches or system disruption.

  • Vulnerable component: JAI-EXT (Java Advanced Imaging extension)
  • Core weakness: Remote code execution via script compilation
  • Main business impact: Unauthorized system control and data compromise

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

This vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a system. It occurs when a program that allows Jiffle scripts to be received over a network uses the JAI-EXT component. The Jiffle script is compiled into Java code and then executed, potentially allowing an attacker to gain control. This impacts organizations that use affected versions of JAI-EXT, particularly downstream projects like GeoServer.

  • Network exposure allows script submission.
  • Attacker sends a malicious Jiffle script.
  • Script compiles and executes, granting control.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a significant risk, enabling remote code execution through specially crafted network requests. Attackers with moderate technical skill could exploit this flaw to compromise systems, potentially leading to data breaches or service disruptions. Organizations using affected versions should consider this a high-priority issue requiring immediate attention.

  • Attackers with moderate skill.
  • No special access or conditions.
  • High business risk or urgency.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

An organization utilizing JAI-EXT, particularly within the GeoServer project, faces a critical risk of remote code execution due to a vulnerability in script compilation. This vulnerability can be triggered when Jiffle scripts are accepted over a network request. While the latest version addresses this, organizations unable to upgrade can disable script compilation from their classpath to mitigate the risk.

  • Find assets processing network-provided scripts.
  • Remove janino-*.jar from the classpath.
  • Apply vendor patch or upgrade JAI-EXT.
  • Verify mitigation and monitor systems.

Frequently asked questions

What is the JAI-EXT vulnerability and what kind of weakness does it involve?

The JAI-EXT vulnerability (CVE-2022-24816) is a remote code execution flaw that occurs when programs allow Jiffle scripts to be provided via network requests. The Jiffle script is compiled into Java code by Janino and then executed, enabling an attacker to run arbitrary code. This weakness is categorized as CWE-94, which relates to the improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command ('OS Command Injection').

How can an attacker exploit the JAI-EXT vulnerability, and what is the scope of the impact?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted Jiffle script through a network request to an affected application. Since the Jiffle script is compiled and executed, the attacker can potentially gain control over the system. The vulnerability has a network attack vector (AV:N), no privileges are required (PR:N), and no user interaction is needed (UI:N). The impact is critical as it allows for the modification of security resources and impacts multiple components (S:C), with complete...

What is the relevance of the JAI-EXT vulnerability, especially concerning GeoServer and network exposure?

The JAI-EXT vulnerability is highly relevant as it affects downstream projects like GeoServer, a widely used geospatial web service platform. The vulnerability is exposed when applications allow Jiffle scripts to be processed via network requests, which is common in internet-facing services. This makes it a significant concern for organizations using GeoServer or other applications that incorporate JAI-EXT and accept script input over the network.

How does the Halo Surface Signal classify the risk of the JAI-EXT vulnerability?

Halo Surface Signal classifies the JAI-EXT vulnerability as 'Likely' due to its potential for exploitation. This classification is based on the fact that the vulnerability affects GeoServer, a platform frequently used as an internet-facing service, and can be triggered by network-provided scripts, a common characteristic of standard deployments handling public requests.

What are the practical steps for mitigating the JAI-EXT vulnerability, especially for users unable to upgrade?

The most effective mitigation is to upgrade JAI-EXT to version 1.1.22 or later, which includes a patch. For organizations unable to upgrade, a workaround is to remove the janino-x.y.z.jar file from the classpath. This action disables the script compilation functionality, thereby preventing the remote code execution. It is crucial to identify assets processing network-provided scripts and verify that the mitigation has been successfully applied.

References

Sources and related resources

Primary sources: NVD, CVE.org, CISA KEV.

NVDPublished Modified