CVE-2024-39884 is a medium-severity vulnerability affecting Apache HTTP Server versions up to 2.4.60. This vulnerability allows for source code disclosure under specific circumstances, particularly when legacy content-type based configurations, such as 'AddType', are utilized. The exploitation of this flaw could potentially result in sensitive local content being served instead of processed correctly, exemplified by PHP scripts being returned as plaintext.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.2, indicating a medium severity level, which means it poses a significant risk to organizations if left unaddressed. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to Apache HTTP Server version 2.4.61, which contains the necessary fix for this issue. Given the potential for source code disclosure, organizations should prioritize this patch to maintain the security of their systems.
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive information, which can lead to further exploitation and compromise. The absence of active exploitation reports at this time does not diminish the need for immediate remediation, as the vulnerability can still pose a significant threat if not addressed promptly.
Organizations should assess their usage of Apache HTTP Server and apply the necessary updates to mitigate potential risks associated with this vulnerability. Timely action is crucial to ensure the security of web applications and sensitive data.
In summary, CVE-2024-39884 is a medium-severity vulnerability that warrants immediate attention. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to version 2.4.61 of Apache HTTP Server to prevent potential source code disclosures and enhance their overall security posture.
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows for source code disclosure when the legacy content-type based configuration is utilized in Apache HTTP Server 2.4.60. The vulnerability exists when files are requested indirectly, which might lead to PHP scripts being served instead of executed. Organizations running this version should upgrade to 2.4.61 to eliminate the risk.
The vulnerability was published on July 4, 2024, and is classified under CVSS version 3.1 with a vector string indicating a local attack vector and a low attack complexity. The confidentiality impact is categorized as high, while integrity and availability impacts are noted as none.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2024-39884 stems from a regression in the core of Apache HTTP Server, specifically in how it handles legacy configuration for content types. The attack vector is local, requiring no special privileges or user interaction, which increases the risk of exploitation.
The attack complexity is low, meaning that an attacker could easily exploit this vulnerability if they have access to the server environment. The overall impact on confidentiality is high, as it could disclose sensitive information, while the integrity and availability of the system remain unaffected.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Real-world deployment of this vulnerability poses a significant risk, as organizations utilizing Apache HTTP Server 2.4.60 may unwittingly expose sensitive scripts and configuration files. The potential for source code disclosure heightens the urgency for organizations to address this vulnerability in their patch management cycles.
The blast radius for this vulnerability can vary significantly based on the configuration of the affected servers and the sensitivity of the information being served. Organizations must evaluate their systems and prioritize remediation based on the criticality of their applications.
Given the CVSS score of 6.2, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycles to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Patching is critical to maintaining the integrity of web applications and protecting sensitive data.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
This vulnerability impacts Apache HTTP Server 2.4.60 and NetApp ONTAP Tools version 10. Organizations using these versions should update to the latest releases to mitigate the associated risks.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should upgrade to Apache HTTP Server version 2.4.61 to effectively address this vulnerability. In the absence of immediate patching capabilities, consider implementing additional security controls such as web application firewalls or restricting access to sensitive files.
For further guidance on securing your applications, organizations may refer to resources on application security assessment and best practices for secure configuration.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor their logs for unusual access patterns or unauthorized file requests that may indicate exploitation attempts. Behavioral anomalies in web traffic may also serve as indicators of risk.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2024-39884 lies in its potential to expose sensitive data, which can have far-reaching implications if not addressed. This vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining updated systems and vigilant monitoring of configurations.
Security teams should take this incident as a learning opportunity to strengthen their patch management processes, ensuring timely updates and evaluations of vulnerabilities. For more information on effective security practices, organizations can explore penetration testing methodology and the importance of proactive security measures.
Furthermore, organizations should consider engaging in red teaming services to better understand their security posture and identify areas for improvement.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.

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