CVE-2022-42889 is a critical vulnerability within Apache Commons Text, which performs variable interpolation. This functionality allows properties to be dynamically evaluated and expanded, utilizing the format "${prefix:name}". The vulnerability arises from several default Lookup instances included in versions 1.5 through 1.9, which could potentially lead to arbitrary code execution or unintended interaction with remote servers.
The affected versions allow lookups such as: "script" for executing expressions through the JVM script execution engine, "dns" for resolving DNS records, and "url" for loading values from URLs. The presence of these interpolators, especially when utilized with untrusted configuration values, poses a significant risk, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely.
With a CVSS score of 9.8, this vulnerability is classified as critical, indicating urgent attention is required from organizations utilizing affected versions of Apache Commons Text. Users are strongly encouraged to upgrade to version 1.10.0 or later, which disables the problematic interpolators by default.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability, particularly given its exploitation potential.
Exploitation of this vulnerability is confirmed, with multiple proof-of-concept (PoC) exploits available in public repositories. The urgency for defenders cannot be overstated.
In summary, CVE-2022-42889 represents a serious threat to applications using Apache Commons Text versions 1.5 to 1.9. Timely upgrades and security assessments are essential to safeguard against potential exploitation.
Vulnerability Details
The official description states that this vulnerability allows for variable interpolation in a way that can result in arbitrary code execution or contacts with remote servers. The vulnerability falls under CWE-94: Code Injection.
The affected components include Apache Commons Text (versions 1.5 through 1.9) and related products such as NetApp BlueXP and Juniper Security Threat Response Manager.
The vulnerability was published on October 13, 2022, and has been classified with a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating a critical severity level.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from the inclusion of default Lookup instances that allow for dangerous operations. Specifically, the "script", "dns", and "url" lookups can be exploited if untrusted inputs are processed without proper validation.
The attack vector is network-based, requiring no privileges or user interaction, which significantly increases the risk of exploitation. The attack complexity is low, making it accessible to a wide range of attackers.
Exploitation can lead to high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with potential for significant damage depending on the environment and data handled by the affected applications.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world risk associated with CVE-2022-42889 includes potential unauthorized access and control over systems using vulnerable versions of Apache Commons Text. Given the widespread use of this library, the potential blast radius is significant.
Organizations are facing an urgent need to assess their exposure to this vulnerability and implement necessary remediation before attackers can exploit it. The CVSS score further emphasizes the critical nature of this vulnerability, categorizing it within the highest risk tier.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
Apache Commons Text versions 1.5 to 1.9 are affected by this vulnerability. Users should update to version 1.10.0 or later to mitigate the risk.
Mitigation & Remediation
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should upgrade to Apache Commons Text 1.10.0, which disables the problematic interpolators by default. If upgrading is not immediately feasible, organizations should evaluate their configurations to eliminate untrusted inputs that may exploit this vulnerability.
Implementing strong network controls, monitoring, and regular security assessments are also recommended strategies to mitigate potential risks.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for indicators of exploitation attempts, including unexpected variable evaluations or interactions with remote servers. Behavioral anomalies in applications utilizing Apache Commons Text should also be investigated.
Network signatures indicating attempts to resolve DNS records or load values from external URLs should be flagged for further review.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2022-42889 lies in its demonstration of the risks associated with dynamic variable interpolation. This vulnerability emphasizes the importance of securing configurations and inputs in applications relying on external libraries.
Security teams should take note of this incident as a strategic takeaway to enhance defensive measures, particularly in reviewing the use of dynamic features that may expose systems to code execution risks.
For further guidance on securing your applications, organizations can consult resources such as penetration testing methodology and security testing best practices to understand how to effectively mitigate vulnerabilities in development.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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