CVE-2018-1258: Authorization Bypass in Spring Framework
Summary
CVE-2018-1258: Spring Framework version 5.0.5 when used in combination with any versions of Spring Security contains an authorization bypass when using method security. Affects org.springframework:spring-core versions >= 5.0.5.RELEASE, < 5.0.6.RELEASE. Fixed in 5.0.6.RELEASE. How to fix ↓
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Background
The Spring Framework is a popular open-source application framework for Java. It provides comprehensive infrastructure support for developing Java applications. Spring Security is an extension of the Spring Framework that provides authentication, authorization, and other security features. The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-1258 affects Spring Framework versions 5.0.5 and earlier when used in combination with any versions of Spring Security. This vulnerability allows an unauthorized user to bypass authorization restrictions and gain access to methods that should be restricted.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises due to an authorization bypass issue in the Spring Framework's method security feature. When method security is used, an unauthorized user can exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to restricted methods. This can lead to various security risks, such as unauthorized data access, privilege escalation, and potential data breaches. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.8, indicating a high severity level.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 7.1.0-RC1 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
5.0.6.RELEASE
This is the first release that contains the fix.
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Workaround
If upgrading to the fixed version is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround can be implemented. One possible workaround is to manually enforce authorization checks within the affected methods, even if they are already annotated with security restrictions. This ensures that unauthorized access is prevented until the framework is updated.
Conclusion
The CVE-2018-1258 vulnerability in the Spring Framework allows unauthorized users to bypass authorization restrictions and gain access to restricted methods. It is crucial to upgrade to the fixed version of the Spring Framework (5.0.6 or later) to mitigate this vulnerability. If immediate upgrade is not possible, manual enforcement of authorization checks within affected methods 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 unauthorized users to bypass authorization restrictions and gain access to restricted methods. This can lead to unauthorized data access, privilege escalation, and potential data breaches.
The vulnerability affects Spring Framework version 5.0.5 and earlier.
Yes, any version of Spring Security used in combination with the affected versions of the Spring Framework is also vulnerable.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 8.8, indicating a high severity level.
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