CVE-2025-27364 represents a critical vulnerability in MITRE Caldera, specifically affecting versions up to 4.2.0 and 5.0.0 before commit 35bc06e. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to leverage Remote Code Execution (RCE) via a crafted web request directed at the Caldera server API, used for compiling and downloading Caldera's Sandcat or Manx agent. The execution of arbitrary code on the server can lead to severe consequences, making prompt remediation essential for organizations utilizing this software.
The CVSS score of 10 indicates a critical severity level, suggesting that the impact of successful exploitation is substantial. Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access and control over affected systems, which can be exploited through the network with low complexity and no privileges required. Given its critical nature, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
As of now, there are no known exploits available for this vulnerability, but the potential for exploitation remains high, underscoring the urgency for defenders. Organizations using affected versions of Caldera must take immediate action to protect their systems.
The vulnerability was published on February 24, 2025, and has been classified under CWE-78, indicating a command injection flaw. The potential for exploitation through crafted web requests highlights critical security risks that need to be addressed.
Vulnerability Details
The official description states that in MITRE Caldera through 4.2.0 and 5.0.0 prior to commit 35bc06e, a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability exists in the dynamic agent compilation functionality. This allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web request using the gcc -extldflags linker flag.
The CVSS score of 10 confirms the critical severity of this vulnerability, highlighting the potential for high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the inadequate validation of user input during the dynamic agent compilation process. Attackers can exploit this flaw by sending specially crafted requests to the Caldera server, utilizing the network as the attack vector.
The attack complexity is low, and no user interaction is required, making it easy for attackers to exploit this vulnerability. The impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability can be classified as high, given the potential for complete server compromise.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations utilizing Caldera must recognize the real-world risks associated with this vulnerability. The potential for remote code execution means that attackers could gain full control over the server, leading to data breaches, service disruptions, and significant financial losses.
The blast radius of this vulnerability could be extensive, particularly for organizations that rely on Caldera for operational security. With critical systems potentially exposed, the urgency for remediation is underscored by the CVSS score and the vulnerability's exploitability status.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
This vulnerability affects MITRE Caldera versions up to 4.2.0 and 5.0.0 prior to commit 35bc06e. Organizations should ensure they are using fixed versions to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The latest version of MITRE Caldera should be deployed to remediate this vulnerability. If patches are not available, organizations may consider implementing workarounds, including restricting access to the Caldera server API and monitoring for unusual activity.
For comprehensive security practices, organizations can benefit from conducting regular penetration testing to uncover potential vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual API access patterns, particularly requests involving the compilation functionality. Behavioral anomalies, such as unexpected command execution, should raise alerts. Implementing network signatures to detect unauthorized requests can enhance protective measures.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
CVE-2025-27364 highlights the critical importance of secure coding practices, particularly in server-side applications that handle user inputs. It exemplifies the risks associated with command injection vulnerabilities, demonstrating the need for diligent validation of all user-supplied data.
Organizations should integrate lessons learned from this incident into their security training programs, focusing on secure coding and vulnerability management best practices. For further insights on vulnerability management, organizations can refer to resources on vulnerability management and the importance of proactive security measures.
Additionally, engaging in penetration testing methodology can further strengthen defenses against evolving threats.
As organizations move forward, the need for continuous security assessments and a culture of security awareness will be paramount to mitigate risks associated with vulnerabilities like CVE-2025-27364.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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