This vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the predictable nature of continuation IDs in Apache Cocoon due to an incorrect usage of seeds in its pseudo-random number generator (PRNG). Specifically, the identifier for continuations is generated using a random number generator seeded with the startup time, which may not be sufficiently unpredictable. As a result, an attacker could potentially guess these continuation IDs and access continuations they should not have permission to view.
The severity of this vulnerability is classified as high, with a CVSS score of 7.5. This rating indicates that organizations using Apache Cocoon are at significant risk, particularly as the vulnerability allows for high confidentiality impact while requiring no privileges or user interaction.
As this project has been retired, there are no plans to release a patch for this issue. Consequently, organizations are encouraged to either find an alternative solution or restrict access to the affected instances to trusted users only. Urgency for defenders is critical; organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Considering the nature of the vulnerability, it is essential for organizations to take proactive measures to mitigate potential exploits. Monitoring for unusual access patterns and employing the "session-bound-continuations" option, if available, can help mitigate risks.
Overall, organizations utilizing Apache Cocoon should remain vigilant and take necessary actions to protect their data and systems from unauthorized access.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability is identified as CVE-2025-24783 and has been reported by the Apache security team. This vulnerability affects all versions of Apache Cocoon due to its reliance on an insecure PRNG for generating continuation IDs.
The official description of the vulnerability highlights the risk posed by using the startup time as a seed for the random number generator, making it predictable. The CWE classification for this issue is CWE-335, indicating improper usage of randomness.
Organizations should be aware that this vulnerability has not been assigned a CVSS score by the vendor, and mitigation efforts are limited. The publication date for this vulnerability was January 27, 2025.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from the reliance on a predictable source for seeding the random number generator used in Apache Cocoon. When a continuation is created, it receives a random identifier generated from this flawed PRNG, which is seeded with the startup time. As the attack vector is network-based, an attacker can exploit this vulnerability remotely.
The attack complexity is low, as no privileges are required, and user interaction is not necessary. If an attacker is aware of the startup time, they can easily guess continuation IDs and access unauthorized continuations, leading to a high confidentiality impact.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive continuations, potentially leading to data leakage. This vulnerability affects all deployments of Apache Cocoon and poses a significant threat if exploited, especially in environments where sensitive information is managed. Organizations should assess their instances of Apache Cocoon to determine their exposure to this vulnerability.
Given the low EPSS score of 0.0102 and a percentile of 0.7748, the likelihood of exploitation remains relatively low; however, the potential impact remains significant. Therefore, organizations should not underestimate the importance of addressing this vulnerability as part of their risk management practices.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of Apache Cocoon are affected by this vulnerability. Due to the lack of ongoing support for this project, users are advised to seek alternative solutions or restrict access to their instances.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should consider restricting access to the affected instances immediately. Enabling the "session-bound-continuations" option can help prevent continuation IDs from being shared across sessions. It is essential to explore alternative software solutions due to the lack of support for Apache Cocoon.
For comprehensive assessment and security testing, organizations may look into penetration testing services to identify and mitigate similar vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual access patterns related to continuations and maintain awareness of any unauthorized access attempts. Behavioral anomalies that indicate potential exploitation should also be prioritized.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2025-24783 reflects a pattern of vulnerabilities related to inadequate randomness in security mechanisms. This vulnerability serves as a reminder for security teams to prioritize secure coding practices, especially in generating cryptographic keys and identifiers.
Organizations should draw lessons from this incident to strengthen their development and security protocols, ensuring that randomness is sourced appropriately and unpredictably.
For further reading on enhancing application security, organizations can explore topics such as application security assessment and best practices in penetration testing methodology.
Moreover, security teams should stay informed about emerging threats and vulnerabilities by following trends and updates in the cybersecurity landscape.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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