External risk intelligence

Apache OFBiz Path Traversal Vulnerability CVE-2024-36104

CVE advisorySeverity: CRITICAL (CVSS 9.1)

CVE-2024-36104

Apache OFBiz is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) framework that typically operates as a public-facing web application or an internet-accessible business service. Because it is designed to manage business processes often requiring external or remote connectivity, it is commonly deployed as an internet-facing web endpoint.

Path Traversal

Apache Ofbiz

before 18.12.14

Halo Surface Signal: 4 out of 5 — likely to be public-facing.

External exposure likelihood

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

A security vulnerability has been identified in Apache OFBiz, an enterprise resource planning system. This issue, a path traversal vulnerability, allows unauthorized access to files and could potentially lead to the modification of data. The primary concern at this time is to confirm if your organization utilizes this technology and if it is exposed externally.

Access to files potentially compromised.
Enterprise resource planning system impacted.
Confirm relevance and exposure.

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker can target Apache OFBiz through its network interface without needing any special privileges. By manipulating file paths, an attacker can trick the application into accessing unintended directories and files. This could potentially lead to the exposure or modification of sensitive information.

Accessible via the network, no authentication required.
Exploits path traversal to access restricted files.
Risk of sensitive data exposure or modification.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability could allow an unauthenticated attacker to read or modify files on the server when OFBiz is deployed in certain configurations. This means sensitive system data or application configuration files might be exposed.

Server files could be accessed.
Path traversal allows unauthorized file access.
Potential for data exposure or modification.

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

Given that Apache OFBiz is an ERP framework often deployed as a public-facing web application, the platform or application owner is likely responsible for addressing this vulnerability. The first practical step involves identifying all instances of OFBiz, assessing their exposure and business criticality, locating the accountable owner, and then planning remediation based on the identified risk.

Confirm OFBiz instances and business criticality.
Identify and engage the application owner.
Plan and execute necessary upgrades.

Supplementary metadata

CVSS vector

Validate whether this threat affects your internet-facing exposure.

Halo Threat Intelligence helps prioritize remediation with Halo Surface Signal and H/A/L/O context. Start exposure validation with a free external attack surface trial.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Apache OFBiz?

Apache OFBiz is an open-source enterprise resource planning (ERP) framework. It provides a suite of tools that businesses use to manage core operations like accounting, manufacturing, supply chain, and customer relationship management. Because it serves as a central hub for business data and processes, it is frequently deployed as a web application to support remote access and integrated services.

What does path traversal mean for CVE-2024-36104?

This vulnerability is classified as CWE-22, or Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory. In simple terms, it means the application fails to properly filter user-supplied input before using it to access files. An attacker can exploit this by inputting specific character sequences that trick the server into accessing files or directories outside of the intended application folder.

How can an attacker trigger this vulnerability?

An attacker triggers this by sending malicious network requests to the application. Because the vulnerability does not require any prior authentication, the attacker does not need a user account or special permissions to attempt the attack. It is important to note that simply visiting the website or using the application normally does not trigger the bug; it requires specifically crafted inputs designed to bypass path restrictions.

Is my instance of Apache OFBiz at risk?

According to Halo Surface Signal, Apache OFBiz is often deployed as an internet-facing web endpoint to facilitate business connectivity. If your deployment is accessible from the internet, it is at higher risk because it is reachable by unauthenticated attackers. Instances restricted to an internal network face a reduced risk profile, though they should still be evaluated based on your organization's internal trust boundaries.

What is the recommended response to this threat?

The most effective way to address this vulnerability is to upgrade your Apache OFBiz installation to version 18.12.14 or later. Before applying the update, verify where the software is deployed within your infrastructure and identify the business owners responsible for those instances. Prioritize patching systems that are reachable over the network to mitigate the risk of unauthorized file access.

References

Written by Nicholas Merritt

Nicholas Merritt is VP of Security Solutions at Halo Security. With more than 25 years across application security, vulnerability prioritization, and offensive security, he helps teams translate threat data into practical exposure validation and remediation focus. He authors Halo Threat Intelligence CVE advisories using Halo Surface Signal and H/A/L/O context to prioritize internet-facing risk.