CVE-2014-8125: Improper Input Validation in Drools and jBPM

org.drools:drools-core Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

17/05/2022
Yes i
High
Not published

CVE-2014-8125: Improper Input Validation in Drools and jBPM. Affects org.drools:drools-core versions < 6.2.0.Final. Fixed in 6.2.0.Final. How to fix ↓

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Background

Drools and jBPM are open-source business rule management systems and workflow engines, respectively. They are widely used for developing and executing business processes and rules. These frameworks provide a flexible and powerful platform for automating complex business logic. However, versions prior to 6.2.0 are vulnerable to an XML external entity (XXE) attack. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files or potentially exploit other unspecified impacts by manipulating a crafted BPMN2 file.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability arises due to improper input validation in Drools and jBPM. Specifically, the frameworks fail to properly handle XML external entities, which can be exploited by an attacker to read sensitive files on the server or potentially execute arbitrary code. By crafting a malicious BPMN2 file, an attacker can trigger the XXE vulnerability and gain unauthorized access to files or cause other malicious actions.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

6.2.0.Final

This is the first release that contains the fix.

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Workaround

If upgrading to the latest version is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround is to disable the processing of external entities in the XML parser configuration. This can be achieved by modifying the configuration files or code responsible for parsing BPMN2 files. By disabling external entity processing, the vulnerability can be mitigated until a proper upgrade can be performed. However, it is strongly recommended to update to the latest version as soon as possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the vulnerability in Drools and jBPM versions prior to 6.2.0 allows for XML external entity (XXE) attacks, enabling remote attackers to read arbitrary files or potentially exploit other impacts. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to version 6.2.0.Final or later. If immediate upgrade is not possible, disabling external entity processing can serve as a temporary workaround. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files or potentially exploit other unspecified impacts. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, data leakage, or even remote code execution.

You can use Vulert's playground (https://vulert.com/scanner) to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities, and the playground allows you to check the vulnerability status without any signup or installation.

While specific exploits for this vulnerability may not be publicly disclosed, the presence of an XXE vulnerability increases the risk of unauthorized access and potential exploitation. It is crucial to address this vulnerability promptly to prevent any potential attacks.

Yes, this vulnerability is identified as CVE-2014-8125.

The CWE ID for this vulnerability is CWE-20, which refers to improper input validation.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for org.drools:drools-core.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

6.2.0.Final

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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