CVE-2014-0033: Improper Input Validation in Apache Tomcat

org.apache.tomcat:tomcat Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

14/05/2022
Yes i
Moderate
Not published

CVE-2014-0033: Improper Input Validation in Apache Tomcat. Affects org.apache.tomcat:tomcat versions >= 6.0.33, < 6.0.38. Fixed in 6.0.38. How to fix ↓

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Background

Apache Tomcat is an open-source web server and servlet container that is used to deploy Java-based web applications. It provides a Java HTTP web server environment for running Java code. The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0033 affects Apache Tomcat versions 6.0.33 through 6.0.37. This vulnerability occurs due to improper input validation in the CoyoteAdapter component of Apache Tomcat. The disableURLRewriting setting is not considered when handling a session ID in a URL, allowing remote attackers to conduct session fixation attacks by exploiting a crafted URL.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in Apache Tomcat allows remote attackers to perform session fixation attacks by manipulating the session ID in a URL. This can lead to unauthorized access to user sessions and potentially compromise sensitive information. The issue arises from the failure to consider the disableURLRewriting setting, which should prevent session fixation attacks. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can force a user's session to use a specific session ID, allowing them to hijack the session and impersonate the user.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

6.0.38

This is the first release that contains the fix.

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Workaround

There is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability. However, users can mitigate the risk by ensuring that the disableURLRewriting setting is enabled in their Apache Tomcat configuration. This can be done by modifying the server.xml file and setting the disableURLRewriting attribute to 'true'. By enabling this setting, the vulnerability can be effectively mitigated.

Conclusion

The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0033 in Apache Tomcat can lead to session fixation attacks, potentially compromising user sessions and sensitive information. It is crucial to upgrade to the latest version of Apache Tomcat (6.0.38 or later) to fix this vulnerability. Additionally, enabling the disableURLRewriting setting in the Apache Tomcat configuration can provide an added layer of protection. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

Apache Tomcat is an open-source web server and servlet container that is used to deploy Java-based web applications. It provides a Java HTTP web server environment for running Java code.

Session fixation is an attack technique where an attacker forces a user's session to use a specific session ID. By doing so, the attacker can hijack the user's session and impersonate them, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information.

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to perform session fixation attacks on Apache Tomcat. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can manipulate the session ID in a URL, forcing a user's session to use a specific session ID and potentially compromising their session and sensitive information.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to Apache Tomcat version 6.0.38 or later. This version includes a fix for the improper input validation issue in the CoyoteAdapter component. Users should update their Apache Tomcat installation to the latest available version to ensure the security of their web applications.

While there is no specific workaround mentioned for this vulnerability, users can mitigate the risk by ensuring that the disableURLRewriting setting is enabled in their Apache Tomcat configuration. By enabling this setting, the vulnerability can be effectively mitigated.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for org.apache.tomcat:tomcat.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

6.0.38

This is the first release that contains the fix.

Tip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →

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