Apache Axis2 Vulnerable to XML Signature Wrapping Attack
Summary
CVE-2012-4418: Apache Axis2 Vulnerable to XML Signature wrapping attack. Affects org.apache.axis2:axis2 versions < 1.7.9. Fixed in 1.7.9. How to fix ↓
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Background
Apache Axis2 is a popular open-source web service framework for building and deploying web services. It provides a comprehensive set of features and supports various protocols and standards. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in Apache Axis2 that allows remote attackers to forge messages and bypass authentication through an XML Signature wrapping attack.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in Apache Axis2 arises from a flaw in its handling of XML signatures. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can manipulate the XML signature in a way that the server accepts the modified message as valid. This can lead to unauthorized access, data tampering, and other security breaches. The vulnerability has a moderate severity rating and has been reviewed by GitHub.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 2.0.1 as of 23 Oct 2026
Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the version below is the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you need the minimum change
1.7.9
This is the first release that contains the fix.
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Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is essential to apply the fix by upgrading to the patched version of Apache Axis2.
Conclusion
Apache Axis2 is vulnerable to an XML Signature wrapping attack, which can allow remote attackers to forge messages and bypass authentication. It is crucial to upgrade to the patched version of Apache Axis2 to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for org.apache.axis2:axis2 →
FAQ
Apache Axis2 is an open-source web service framework for building and deploying web services. It provides a comprehensive set of features and supports various protocols and standards.
An XML Signature wrapping attack is a type of attack where an attacker manipulates the XML signature in a way that the server accepts the modified message as valid. This can lead to unauthorized access, data tampering, and other security breaches.
This vulnerability has a moderate severity rating.
Yes, this vulnerability has been reviewed by GitHub.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to Apache Axis2 version 1.7.9 or later. This version includes a fix for the XML Signature wrapping attack. Developers should update their project's dependencies to use the patched version of Apache Axis2.
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