CVE-2013-2186: Arbitrary file write in Apache Commons Fileupload
Summary
CVE-2013-2186: Arbitrary file write in Apache Commons Fileupload. Affects commons-fileupload:commons-fileupload versions < 1.3.1. Fixed in 1.3.1. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
- libcommons-fileupload-java · Debian:11
The same CVE-2013-2186 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
Apache Commons FileUpload is a popular Java library used for uploading files in web applications. It provides a simple API for handling file uploads and is widely used in various frameworks and applications. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in the DiskFileItem class of Apache Commons FileUpload, which allows remote attackers to write to arbitrary files by exploiting a NULL byte in a file name in a serialized instance. This vulnerability affects multiple versions of Red Hat JBoss BRMS, JBoss Portal, and Red Hat JBoss Web Server.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from a failure to properly sanitize file names during file upload. By including a NULL byte in the file name, an attacker can manipulate the serialization process and write files to arbitrary locations on the server. This can lead to unauthorized access, data leakage, or even remote code execution depending on the context in which the uploaded files are used.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.3.1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
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Workaround
If upgrading to a fixed version is not immediately feasible, a possible workaround is to implement additional validation and sanitization checks on file names during file upload. This can involve rejecting file names that contain NULL bytes or other potentially malicious characters. However, this workaround is not foolproof and should only be considered as a temporary measure until the library can be updated.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in Apache Commons FileUpload can allow remote attackers to write to arbitrary files on the server, potentially leading to unauthorized access or remote code execution. It is crucial to upgrade to a fixed version of the library (1.3.1 or later) or implement appropriate workarounds to mitigate the risk. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
Apache Commons FileUpload is a Java library used for handling file uploads in web applications. It provides an easy-to-use API for developers to process and store uploaded files.
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to write to arbitrary files on the server. Depending on the context, this can lead to unauthorized access, data leakage, or even remote code execution.
The vulnerability affects versions of Apache Commons FileUpload prior to 1.3.1.
While specific exploits for this vulnerability may exist, they have not been disclosed publicly at the time of this report. However, it is important to patch the vulnerability as soon as possible to prevent potential attacks.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your pom.xml file and Vulert will analyze it for any known vulnerabilities, including this one.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for commons-fileupload:commons-fileupload.
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