CVE-2001-0829: Apache Tomcat XSS Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2001-0829: Apache Tomcat allows webmasters to insert xss into error messages. Affects org.apache.tomcat:tomcat versions < 3.2.1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
Apache Tomcat is an open-source web server and servlet container that is widely used for hosting Java-based web applications. It provides a robust and scalable platform for running Java web applications, with features such as servlet and JSP support, session management, and security mechanisms. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in Apache Tomcat version 3.2.1 that allows a malicious webmaster to insert cross-site scripting (XSS) payloads into error messages.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in Apache Tomcat 3.2.1 arises from a lack of proper input sanitization in the handling of .JSP files. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted request for a .JSP file that contains malicious JavaScript code. When the server encounters an error while processing the request, it includes the injected JavaScript code in the resulting error message. This can lead to the execution of arbitrary code in the context of the victim's browser, potentially compromising their sensitive information or performing unauthorized actions.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
If upgrading to a patched version is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround is to disable the display of detailed error messages in the Apache Tomcat configuration. By modifying the server configuration to suppress error messages or provide generic error pages, the risk of exposing XSS payloads can be mitigated. However, this workaround does not address the underlying vulnerability and should be considered a temporary measure until the software can be updated.
Conclusion
The XSS vulnerability in Apache Tomcat 3.2.1 poses a moderate security risk to web applications hosted on affected servers. It is crucial for webmasters to promptly update their Apache Tomcat installations to a patched version to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks. Regular monitoring and updating of software components are essential to ensure the overall security of web applications. For further assistance and support in addressing this vulnerability, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for org.apache.tomcat:tomcat →
FAQ
Cross-site scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. This can lead to the execution of arbitrary code in the victim's browser, compromising their data or enabling unauthorized actions.
The Apache Tomcat XSS vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code into error messages. If a web application running on Apache Tomcat is vulnerable, it can inadvertently display the injected code to users, potentially leading to XSS attacks and the compromise of sensitive information.
While specific exploits targeting this vulnerability may exist, they have not been disclosed publicly at this time. However, it is important to promptly address this vulnerability by applying the recommended fixes to prevent potential exploitation.
No, only Apache Tomcat version 3.2.1 is known to be affected by this XSS vulnerability. It is recommended to check the version of Apache Tomcat in use and upgrade to a patched version if necessary.
Yes, this vulnerability can be exploited remotely by sending a specially crafted request to a vulnerable Apache Tomcat server. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability without requiring any prior authentication.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for org.apache.tomcat:tomcat.
