CVE-2016-8735 is a critical remote code execution vulnerability that impacts various versions of Apache Tomcat. Specifically, affected versions include Apache Tomcat prior to 6.0.48, 7.x prior to 7.0.73, 8.x prior to 8.0.39, 8.5.x prior to 8.5.7, and 9.x prior to 9.0.0.M12. The vulnerability arises when the JmxRemoteLifecycleListener is used without proper configuration, allowing an attacker to reach the Java Management Extension (JMX) ports. This oversight was not addressed in line with the Oracle patch for CVE-2016-3427, which affected credential types.
The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSS score of 9.8, placing it in the critical category. This significantly heightens the risk to organizations, as successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized remote code execution, which may compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.
Risk to organizations includes potential data breaches, service disruptions, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Given its critical nature, organizations must prioritize patching this vulnerability immediately to avert possible exploitation.
As of now, this vulnerability is included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, indicating that it is actively being targeted. Therefore, it is imperative for organizations using affected versions of Apache Tomcat to take immediate action.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2016-8735 states that remote code execution is possible with Apache Tomcat versions before 6.0.48, 7.x before 7.0.73, 8.x before 8.0.39, 8.5.x before 8.5.7, and 9.x before 9.0.0.M12. The vulnerability is linked to the JmxRemoteLifecycleListener, which, if utilized, could expose systems to remote code execution if an attacker can access JMX ports.
This vulnerability has been scored with a CVSS version 3.1 score of 9.8, indicating a critical severity. The attack vector is categorized as NETWORK, requiring low complexity and no privileges, meaning that attackers can exploit this vulnerability without needing to authenticate.
The vulnerability was first published on April 6, 2017, and is classified under CWE-284, which pertains to improper access control.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from the JmxRemoteLifecycleListener not being updated in accordance with the Oracle patch for CVE-2016-3427. This oversight creates a scenario where an attacker can leverage the unprotected JMX ports to execute arbitrary code remotely.
The attack vector is primarily network-based, enabling remote attackers to exploit the vulnerability without needing physical access to the system. The complexity of executing this attack is low, as no specific prerequisites are required, and user interaction is not necessary.
In terms of impact, successful exploitation could result in high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, as attackers may gain full control over the affected systems.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world risk associated with CVE-2016-8735 is significant, particularly for organizations relying on Apache Tomcat for their web applications. The potential for remote code execution can lead to catastrophic data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive systems, and severe service disruptions.
Organizations should assess their exposure to this vulnerability based on their deployment architecture and JMX port accessibility. The blast radius is considerable, especially for those whose systems are exposed to the internet or poorly secured networks.
Urgency is heightened by the fact that this vulnerability is included in the KEV catalog, emphasizing its active exploitation in the wild. Organizations should prioritize remediation based on its critical CVSS score and known exploitation status.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | Yes |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of Apache Tomcat prior to the following are affected: 6.0.48, 7.0.73, 8.0.39, 8.5.7, and 9.0.0.M12. Organizations should verify their Apache Tomcat installations and apply the necessary updates.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2016-8735, organizations should apply the latest patches provided by Apache. It is essential to upgrade to versions of Tomcat that are not vulnerable, specifically those released after the specified versions. Additionally, organizations should ensure that JMX ports are not exposed unnecessarily and that proper firewall rules are in place.
For further assistance and validation of the implementation, organizations can consider engaging in penetration testing services.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for any unauthorized access attempts to JMX ports and look for unusual behavior patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Network signatures that identify unauthorized access to these ports should be implemented as part of the detection strategy.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2016-8735 lies in its exposure of critical services through misconfigured components. Organizations must learn from this vulnerability and adopt a proactive approach to security, ensuring that all components are regularly updated and monitored.
This incident reflects a broader trend of vulnerabilities arising from insufficient oversight in security configurations. Security teams should focus on comprehensive security assessments and prioritize penetration testing methodology to identify and address such weaknesses.
In conclusion, the CVE-2016-8735 vulnerability serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of maintaining secure configurations and the need for vigilant monitoring in cloud and network environments. Organizations must remain vigilant and adapt their security practices accordingly.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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