CVE-2022-36364 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting the Apache Calcite Avatica JDBC driver. This vulnerability allows an attacker to exploit the driver’s failure to validate HTTP client instances based on class names provided via the `httpclient_impl` connection property. Specifically, the driver does not check if the class implements the expected interface before creating instances, which can lead to code execution using arbitrary classes. In rare cases, this may even result in remote code execution.
To successfully exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must have privileges to control the JDBC connection parameters and there must exist a vulnerable class within the classpath, which has a constructor accepting a URL parameter and the ability to execute code. It is crucial for organizations using versions of the driver prior to 1.22.0 to address this vulnerability, as the newer versions enforce the necessary checks before invoking the constructor of HTTP client classes.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 8.8, indicating a high level of severity. The combination of low attack complexity and the requirement for low privileges makes it easier for attackers to exploit this vulnerability, amplifying the risk to organizations.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The potential impacts include significant confidentiality, integrity, and availability concerns, making this a critical issue to address.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability is described in detail as follows: The Apache Calcite Avatica JDBC driver creates HTTP client instances based on class names provided via the `httpclient_impl` connection property. However, the driver does not verify if the class implements the expected interface before instantiating it, which can lead to code execution loaded via arbitrary classes and, in rare cases, remote code execution.
The CVSS score is 8.8, categorized as high severity, indicating that the vulnerability poses a significant risk. The affected product is the Apache Calcite Avatica, specifically versions prior to 1.22.0. This issue was published on July 28, 2022.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2022-36364 lies in the design of the Apache Calcite Avatica JDBC driver, where user-defined classes are instantiated without validating if they conform to the expected interface. The driver creates HTTP client instances based on arbitrary class names, which can lead to the execution of malicious code.
The attack vector is network-based, requiring an attacker to have low privileges to manipulate JDBC connection parameters. The attack complexity is low, meaning that it does not require advanced skills to exploit.
There is no user interaction required for this exploit, and it can lead to significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as the attacker could potentially execute arbitrary code on the server.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes the potential for significant data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive systems, and disruption of services. Given that the vulnerability allows for arbitrary code execution, the blast radius can extend far beyond the immediate system, affecting other interconnected systems within the network.
Organizations should assess their exposure to this vulnerability and prioritize its remediation based on the CVSS score of 8.8, which indicates a high urgency for patching. The EPSS score of 0.1179 places this vulnerability in a high-risk percentile, reinforcing the need for immediate attention.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions prior to Apache Calcite Avatica 1.22.0 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations using earlier versions should assess their risk exposure and apply the necessary updates.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2022-36364, organizations should upgrade to Apache Calcite Avatica version 1.22.0 or later, where the driver verifies that the class implements the expected interface before invoking its constructor.
For those unable to immediately upgrade, consider implementing network controls to restrict access to the JDBC connections and monitor for unusual activities that may indicate exploitation attempts.
Additionally, organizations should utilize penetration testing to validate the effectiveness of their security measures.
Detection Guidance
Monitoring logs for indicators of exploitation is crucial. Look for abnormal patterns in JDBC connection parameters and any attempts to load unexpected classes.
Behavioral anomalies in the application that utilizes the Apache Calcite Avatica JDBC driver should also be monitored closely to detect any unauthorized actions.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2022-36364 represents a significant risk due to its potential for code execution. In addition, it highlights the importance of input validation and proper class instantiation procedures within software design.
Security teams should implement stringent checks for input parameters and ensure that any user-defined classes are validated before use.
For further insights on vulnerability management, refer to our resources on vulnerability management programs and effective penetration testing methodologies that can help in identifying such vulnerabilities proactively.
Adopting a proactive security posture will assist organizations in mitigating risks posed by vulnerabilities like CVE-2022-36364.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.

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