CVE-2023-36479 affects the Eclipse Jetty project, specifically its Canonical Repository. The vulnerability arises in the CgiServlet component, which may allow for the execution of incorrect commands based on specific command structures. When a request is sent to the org.eclipse.jetty.servlets.CGI Servlet for a binary with a space in its name, the servlet improperly escapes the command, which could lead to unintended command execution. This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it impacts the security of applications relying on Jetty.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 3.5, classified as low severity. This score indicates that while the vulnerability poses a risk, the complexity of exploiting it is high, requiring low privileges and no user interaction. The attack vector is network-based, which means it could be exploited remotely under certain conditions. Organizations using Jetty versions prior to the patched versions (9.4.52, 10.0.16, 11.0.16, and 12.0.0-beta2) are at risk.
Given the nature of this vulnerability, it is essential for organizations to assess their use of affected Jetty versions promptly. Although the vulnerability has a lower severity rating, the potential for improper command execution could lead to further security issues. Therefore, organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Monitoring for any unusual activity related to the CGI Servlet should be part of the security posture for organizations using Jetty. Although no public exploit has been confirmed, vigilance is crucial, as attackers continuously seek to exploit such vulnerabilities.
In summary, CVE-2023-36479 presents a low-severity risk but requires attention from organizations using affected versions of Eclipse Jetty. Prompt patching and continuous monitoring are essential to mitigate any potential security risks.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability affects the Eclipse Jetty Canonical Repository, specifically the CgiServlet component. Affected versions include all prior to 9.4.52, 10.0.16, 11.0.16, and 12.0.0-beta2. The CVSS score is 3.5, indicating low severity with a high attack complexity. The vulnerability is documented as CWE-149, which relates to improper command quoting.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in how the CgiServlet processes commands. When provided with a binary name containing a space, the servlet incorrectly wraps the command in quotation marks, which can lead to multiple tokens being executed when the command is processed. This flaw allows attackers to manipulate command execution paths if they can control the input sent to the servlet.
The attack vector is through the network, meaning that an attacker does not need direct access to the affected system, but can exploit the servlet remotely. The attack complexity is categorized as high due to the specific command structure required to trigger the vulnerability. Privileges required for exploitation are low, and user interaction is not necessary.
The impacts of this vulnerability include low integrity impact, with no confidentiality or availability impact. In essence, while exploitation may lead to unintended command execution, the overall system integrity remains intact, provided that other security measures are in place.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations using affected versions of Jetty are at risk of improper command execution through this vulnerability. The potential for exploitation, while lower in probability, still exists, particularly in environments where user input is not adequately sanitized. The urgency for addressing this issue is moderate due to the complexity required for exploitation, but organizations should not underestimate the potential impact on their operations.
Organizations should assess their deployment of Jetty and consider the implications of this vulnerability. The blast radius is limited to applications relying on the CgiServlet, but if exploited, it could lead to further security issues. Therefore, organizations should schedule remediation in their patch cycles.
To aid in risk management, organizations should monitor their systems for any anomalies related to the CGI Servlet and enforce strict input validation to minimize the chances of exploitation.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The following versions of Eclipse Jetty are affected by this vulnerability: all versions prior to 9.4.52, 10.0.16, 11.0.16, and 12.0.0-beta2. Organizations should verify their deployments to ensure they are not using vulnerable versions.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations are urged to patch affected versions of Jetty to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability. The fixed versions are 9.4.52, 10.0.16, 11.0.16, and 12.0.0-beta2. If patches are not immediately available, organizations should implement input validation to prevent the submission of malformed commands.
In addition to patching, organizations should review their configurations to ensure that unnecessary features such as the CgiServlet are disabled if not in use. This can help reduce the attack surface and enhance overall security.
For more information on how to conduct effective security assessments, organizations can refer to our comprehensive guide on application security assessment.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for any unusual activity related to the CgiServlet. Indicators of potential exploitation could include unexpected command executions or requests containing malformed binary names.
Behavioral anomalies should also be monitored, especially in applications that utilize the affected Jetty versions. Network signatures can be employed to identify malicious patterns that may indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2023-36479 is reflective of the ongoing challenges in application security, particularly regarding how user input is processed. This vulnerability exemplifies the need for robust input validation and the importance of keeping software components up-to-date.
Security teams should be aware of the patterns that emerge from vulnerabilities like this one, particularly in the context of command execution flaws. It is crucial to integrate lessons learned from such vulnerabilities into development processes and security training.
For further insights into effective security practices, organizations may benefit from our guide on penetration testing methodology and consider establishing a robust vulnerability management program to stay proactive against potential threats.
Lastly, organizations should consider reviewing their overall security posture and implementing strategies discussed in our red teaming guide to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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