A code injection vulnerability exists in the Ambari Alert Definition feature, allowing authenticated users to inject and execute arbitrary shell commands. The vulnerability arises when defining alert scripts, where the script filename field is executed using `sh -c`. An attacker with authenticated access can exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious commands, leading to remote code execution on the server. The issue has been fixed in the latest versions of Ambari.
With a CVSS score of 8.8, this vulnerability is classified as high severity, indicating significant risk to organizations. The potential for remote code execution makes it critical for affected users to address it promptly. Given the nature of the vulnerability, it can have severe implications for system integrity and confidentiality.
As this vulnerability is not included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, organizations may not be aware of its potential impact. However, the severity and exploitability of this vulnerability necessitate immediate attention. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Effective remediation involves not only applying the necessary patches but also reviewing existing configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2025-23196, allows authenticated users to execute arbitrary shell commands through the Ambari Alert Definition feature. This code injection vulnerability occurs when alert scripts are defined, with the script filename being executed without proper validation. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-77, indicating improper neutralization of special elements used in a command ('command injection').
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 8.8, classified as high severity, with a network attack vector, low attack complexity, and low privileges required for exploitation. The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all rated as high.
This vulnerability affects all versions of Apache Ambari prior to 2.7.9. The official publication date for this vulnerability is January 21, 2025.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is the lack of input validation when executing alert scripts in the Ambari Alert Definition feature. The attack vector is network-based, enabling an authenticated user to execute arbitrary shell commands remotely. The attack complexity is low, meaning that exploitation does not require sophisticated techniques, and the attacker needs only low privileges to initiate an attack.
User interaction is not required to exploit this vulnerability, which increases the risk as it allows for automated attacks. The impact of a successful exploitation includes high risks to confidentiality, integrity, and availability, as an attacker can potentially execute commands that compromise the entire system.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes potential full system compromise due to arbitrary code execution by authenticated users. The blast radius of such an attack can be significant, affecting not just the targeted system but potentially the entire network depending on configurations and access controls.
Given the CVSS score of 8.8, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle. Immediate patching is necessary to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
This vulnerability affects all versions of Apache Ambari prior to version 2.7.9. Organizations should ensure they are running the latest versions to mitigate this risk.
Mitigation & Remediation
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should upgrade to the latest version of Apache Ambari. If an immediate upgrade is not possible, organizations should implement workarounds, such as disabling the Ambari Alert Definition feature until a patch can be applied.
Additionally, organizations should conduct a thorough review of their alert configurations and implement strict input validation for any user-defined scripts to mitigate the risk of similar vulnerabilities in the future. Organizations should validate remediation through penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor system logs for any unusual activity that may indicate exploitation attempts. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected scripts being executed, should be flagged for further investigation. Additionally, network signatures related to unauthorized command executions should be monitored to detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-23196 highlights ongoing issues with code injection vulnerabilities within applications, particularly those that allow for user-defined script executions. The low complexity for exploitation combined with high impact potential makes this a significant concern for organizations using Apache Ambari.
Security teams should learn from this incident by reviewing their existing security controls surrounding user input handling and script execution. Implementing a robust security framework that includes regular vulnerability assessments can help mitigate similar risks in the future. For organizations looking to enhance their security posture, engaging in penetration testing methodology could provide valuable insights.
Additionally, adopting a continuous security testing approach can help identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. Organizations should consider implementing vulnerability management programs that prioritize proactive measures.
Finally, leveraging insights from API penetration testing can further help organizations secure their applications against similar vulnerabilities.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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