CVE-2021-31805 is classified as a critical vulnerability in Apache Struts, with a CVSS score of 9.8. This vulnerability allows for Remote Code Execution (RCE) due to incomplete fixes from a previous vulnerability (CVE-2020-17530). Specifically, it affects versions from Apache Struts 2.0.0 to 2.5.29, where certain tag attributes can perform a double evaluation when developers use forced OGNL evaluation through the %{...} syntax. Utilizing this evaluation method on untrusted user input can lead to severe security degradation.
The implications of this vulnerability are significant, as it not only compromises confidentiality and integrity but also impacts availability. Attackers may leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code, which can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data and control over the affected systems. The urgency for organizations utilizing Apache Struts cannot be overstated; immediate action is required to mitigate potential risks associated with this vulnerability.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The vulnerability was published on April 12, 2022, and the potential for exploitation remains high given its critical nature and the low complexity required for successful attacks. Although no known exploits have been confirmed in the wild, the existence of multiple proof-of-concept (PoC) repositories on GitHub indicates that the vulnerability is actively being researched and could be exploited if not addressed.
In summary, CVE-2021-31805 presents a serious risk to organizations that use Apache Struts. Effective remediation strategies must be implemented to ensure security and compliance.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2021-31805 states that the fix for CVE-2020-17530 was incomplete. This results in Apache Struts versions 2.0.0 through 2.5.29 being vulnerable, as certain tag attributes can still perform double evaluations if a developer uses forced OGNL evaluation. The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 9.8, which categorizes it as critical. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts are rated as high, indicating a severe risk if exploited.
The vulnerability is classified under CWE-917, indicating a failure to properly validate user input. The affected product is Apache Struts, and the issue was published on April 12, 2022.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2021-31805 lies in the incomplete fix for a previous vulnerability, which allows for forced OGNL evaluation on untrusted user inputs. This flaw can be exploited over a network, requiring no privileges or user interaction, thereby simplifying the attack process. The attack complexity is rated as low, making it accessible even to less sophisticated attackers.
The impacts of a successful exploitation include high confidentiality and integrity impacts, as well as high availability impact. This means that sensitive data can be disclosed, altered, or rendered unavailable to legitimate users.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The deployment risk associated with CVE-2021-31805 is significant, as organizations using vulnerable versions of Apache Struts are exposed to potential attacks that could lead to unauthorized remote code execution. The blast radius of this vulnerability is extensive, as it affects all installations of the vulnerable versions.
Organizations should assess the urgency based on the critical CVSS score of 9.8, which indicates an immediate need for remediation. Given the high likelihood of exploitation, addressing this vulnerability should be a top priority.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerable versions of Apache Struts range from 2.0.0 to 2.5.29. Organizations running these versions should prioritize upgrading to the latest patched version to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
To remediate CVE-2021-31805, organizations should apply the latest patches provided by Apache. For detailed guidance on updating Apache Struts, refer to the application security assessment. Additionally, organizations can implement input validation to sanitize user inputs before processing them.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of exploitation attempts, including unusual network traffic and unauthorized command executions. Behavioral anomalies in application performance may also indicate an active exploitation of this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2021-31805 highlights the need for continuous vigilance in application security, especially for frameworks like Apache Struts that are widely used. Security teams should consider adopting a proactive approach to vulnerability management, ensuring that all components are regularly updated and assessed against known vulnerabilities. For organizations leveraging cloud environments, it is crucial to integrate security testing into the development lifecycle, as discussed in our cloud penetration testing guide. Moreover, implementing a penetration testing methodology can further enhance security posture against such vulnerabilities.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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