CVE-2017-5656: Session Fixation in Apache CXF

org.apache.cxf:cxf-core Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

13/05/2022
Yes i
High
7.5

CVE-2017-5656: Session Fixation in Apache CXF. Affects org.apache.cxf:cxf-core across 2 version ranges.

< 3.0.13 >= 3.1.0, < 3.1.11

Fixed in 3.0.13 or 3.1.11, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓

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Background

Apache CXF is a popular open-source web services framework that allows developers to build and deploy services using various protocols, including SOAP and REST. It provides a comprehensive set of features for developing and consuming web services. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in Apache CXF's STSClient component that could allow an attacker to perform session fixation attacks.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability in Apache CXF's STSClient arises from a flawed caching mechanism for tokens associated with delegation tokens. The flawed caching allows an attacker to craft a token that would return an identifier corresponding to a cached token for another user. This can lead to session fixation, where an attacker can hijack a user's session and impersonate them, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information or performing malicious actions on behalf of the user.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • < 3.0.13 3.0.13
  • >= 3.1.0, < 3.1.11 3.1.11

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

Workaround

There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. It is necessary to upgrade to the fixed versions of Apache CXF to mitigate the risk.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the vulnerability in Apache CXF's STSClient can lead to session fixation attacks, allowing an attacker to hijack a user's session and impersonate them. It is crucial to upgrade to the fixed versions of Apache CXF and follow secure session management practices to mitigate the risk. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for org.apache.cxf:cxf-core →

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FAQ

Apache CXF is an open-source web services framework that allows developers to build and deploy services using various protocols.

Session fixation is an attack where an attacker sets the session identifier of a user's session to a known value, allowing them to hijack the session and impersonate the user.

The vulnerability arises from a flawed caching mechanism that allows an attacker to craft a token that would return an identifier corresponding to a cached token for another user.

The vulnerability can allow an attacker to hijack a user's session and impersonate them, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information or performing malicious actions on behalf of the user.

To mitigate the risk, it is recommended to upgrade to the latest fixed versions of Apache CXF and follow secure session management practices.

Related vulnerabilities

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

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

  • < 3.0.13 3.0.13
  • >= 3.1.0, < 3.1.11 3.1.11

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

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