CVE-2016-1181: Improper Input Validation in Apache Struts

Summary

13/05/2022
No i
High
8.1

CVE-2016-1181: Improper Input Validation in Apache Struts. Affects org.apache.struts:struts-core versions < 1.3.10. No fix is published. How to fix ↓

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Background

Apache Struts is an open-source framework for developing Java web applications. It provides a set of reusable components and a MVC (Model-View-Controller) architecture for building scalable and maintainable web applications. The Apache Struts package affected by this vulnerability is 'org.apache.struts:struts-core'. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting a multithreaded access issue in the ActionServlet.java file. This vulnerability is similar to CVE-2015-0899.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in Apache Struts arises from improper input validation in the ActionServlet.java file. When multiple threads access an ActionForm instance, it can lead to unexpected memory access or allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability can have severe consequences, including unauthorized code execution and denial of service attacks. The Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) identifier for this vulnerability is CVE-2016-1181. The vulnerability has a CVSSv3 score of 8.1, indicating a high severity.

How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

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Workaround

If upgrading to a patched version is not immediately feasible, a possible workaround is to implement proper synchronization mechanisms in the affected code to prevent multithreaded access issues. This can involve using locks or other concurrency control mechanisms to ensure that only one thread can access the vulnerable ActionForm instance at a time. Here is an example of how synchronization can be implemented in Java:

synchronized (actionFormInstance) {
  // Code that accesses the ActionForm instance
}

Conclusion

The vulnerability in Apache Struts (CVE-2016-1181) can lead to unauthorized code execution or denial of service attacks. It is important to promptly upgrade to a patched version of the Apache Struts package or implement proper synchronization mechanisms in the affected code. Regularly updating dependencies and following security advisories is essential for maintaining the security of your application. For further support on vulnerability remediation, you can contact DevNack.com.

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FAQ

Apache Struts is an open-source framework for developing Java web applications. It provides a set of reusable components and a MVC architecture for building scalable and maintainable web applications.

This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service by exploiting a multithreaded access issue in the ActionServlet.java file. The consequences can include unauthorized code execution and disruption of the affected application.

The CVE identifier for this vulnerability is CVE-2016-1181.

The CVSSv3 score of this vulnerability is 8.1, indicating a high severity.

To fix this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade the Apache Struts package to a version beyond 1.3.10 that includes the necessary patches. Regularly updating dependencies and following security advisories is crucial for maintaining a secure application.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for org.apache.struts:struts-core.

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How To Fix

No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.

Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →

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