** UNSUPPORTED WHEN ASSIGNED ** When integrating Apache Axis 1.x in an application, it may not have been obvious that looking up a service through "ServiceFactory.getService" allows potentially dangerous lookup mechanisms such as LDAP. When passing untrusted input to this API method, this could expose the application to DoS, SSRF and even attacks leading to RCE.
As Axis 1 has been EOL, we recommend you migrate to a different SOAP engine, such as Apache Axis 2/Java. As a workaround, you may review your code to verify no untrusted or unsanitized input is passed to "ServiceFactory.getService", or by applying the patch from this patch. The Apache Axis project does not expect to create an Axis 1.x release fixing this problem, though contributors that would like to work towards this are welcome.
The severity of this vulnerability is critical with a CVSS score of 9.8. This indicates a significant threat to organizations utilizing Apache Axis 1.x, especially those handling sensitive data.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
The vulnerability can lead to severe consequences, including potential unauthorized access and disruption of services, thus making it imperative for organizations to act swiftly.
Vulnerability Details
CVE-2023-40743 affects Apache Axis 1.x, which has reached end-of-life (EOL). The vulnerability arises from the use of the ServiceFactory.getService method, which can be exploited through untrusted input leading to various attacks such as Denial of Service (DoS), Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF), and Remote Code Execution (RCE). The CVSS score of 9.8 categorizes this as a critical vulnerability.
The publication date of this vulnerability is September 5, 2023, and it is classified under CWE-20 (Improper Input Validation) and CWE-75 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection')).
Technical Analysis
The root cause of the vulnerability is the potential for dangerous lookup mechanisms such as LDAP when untrusted input is processed by the ServiceFactory.getService method. The attack vector is network-based, with low complexity, and does not require any privileges or user interaction. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is assessed as high, which amplifies the urgency for mitigation.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes exposure to various attack vectors that could compromise sensitive data or disrupt services. The vulnerability's critical severity implies that it can have a widespread impact, especially for applications still utilizing Apache Axis 1.x. Organizations should address it in their priority patch cycle to prevent exploitation and subsequent damage.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerable version of Apache Axis is any version prior to 2023-08-01. Organizations running affected versions should plan to upgrade to Apache Axis 2 or apply the available patches.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The recommended action is to migrate from Apache Axis 1.x to Apache Axis 2/Java. If immediate migration is not feasible, review your code to ensure no untrusted or unsanitized input is passed to the ServiceFactory.getService method.
For further guidance on securing your applications, organizations may refer to the application security assessment resources available.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual access patterns associated with the use of the ServiceFactory.getService method. Additionally, behavioral anomalies in application responses when handling user inputs should be closely observed.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2023-40743 lies in the ongoing risk posed by legacy systems and the critical need for organizations to phase out unsupported technologies.
This vulnerability represents a pattern of security risks associated with outdated software components, which can lead to severe vulnerabilities if not addressed. Organizations are encouraged to review their technology stack and transition to supported solutions regularly.
For more insights on securing your applications against such vulnerabilities, see our article on penetration testing methodology and best practices.
Additionally, organizations should consider implementing a vulnerability management program to proactively address potential security weaknesses in their infrastructure.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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