CVE-2013-2254: Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer in Apache Sling
Summary
CVE-2013-2254: Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer in Apache Sling. Affects org.apache.sling:org.apache.sling.api versions < 2.4.0. Fixed in 2.4.0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Apache Sling is an open-source web framework built on top of the Java Content Repository (JCR) technology. It provides a RESTful interface for managing content and applications in a JCR repository. The org.apache.sling.servlets.post.bundle package in Apache Sling includes the deepGetOrCreateNode function, which is responsible for creating or retrieving nodes in the repository. This function is affected by a vulnerability that can lead to a denial of service (infinite loop) when certain conditions are met.
Vulnerability Detail
The deepGetOrCreateNode function in Apache Sling does not handle a NULL value properly when the session lacks permissions to the root node. This issue can be exploited by remote attackers to cause a denial of service by triggering an infinite loop. The exact vectors for exploitation are unspecified in the available information.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 3.0.2 as of 22 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
2.4.0
This is the first release that contains the fix.
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Workaround
No specific workaround has been mentioned for this vulnerability.
Conclusion
The deepGetOrCreateNode function in Apache Sling is vulnerable to a denial of service attack due to improper handling of a NULL value. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade the org.apache.sling:org.apache.sling.api package to version 2.4.0 or later. For further assistance with vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
Apache Sling is an open-source web framework built on top of the Java Content Repository (JCR) technology. It provides a RESTful interface for managing content and applications in a JCR repository.
This vulnerability can lead to a denial of service (infinite loop) in Apache Sling when certain conditions are met. Remote attackers can exploit this issue to cause the affected application to become unresponsive.
To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade the org.apache.sling:org.apache.sling.api package to version 2.4.0 or later.
No specific workarounds have been mentioned for this vulnerability.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the CVE-2013-2254 advisory.
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