CVE-2018-18240: Pippo RCE Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2018-18240: Pippo RCE Vulnerability. Affects ro.pippo:pippo-core versions < 1.12.0. Fixed in 1.12.0. How to fix ↓
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Background
Pippo is a Maven package that provides a framework for building web applications in Java. It offers various features and components to simplify the development process. However, versions up to 1.11.0 are vulnerable to remote code execution (RCE) due to a flaw in the XstreamEngine component. This vulnerability allows an attacker to execute arbitrary commands through java.lang.ProcessBuilder. The XstreamEngine component fails to utilize XStream's available protection mechanisms, leaving it susceptible to unmarshalling attacks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in Pippo versions up to 1.11.0 enables remote code execution by leveraging the command execution capability of java.lang.ProcessBuilder. Attackers can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary commands on the target system. The XstreamEngine component's lack of proper protection mechanisms makes it vulnerable to unmarshalling attacks, allowing malicious actors to bypass security measures and execute unauthorized code. This vulnerability has a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating its critical severity.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 1.14.0 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
1.12.0
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 →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, developers can consider implementing input validation and sanitization techniques to mitigate the risk of unmarshalling attacks. By carefully validating and sanitizing user-supplied input before passing it to the XstreamEngine component, the impact of this vulnerability can be reduced. However, this workaround is not a permanent solution and should be followed by upgrading to the fixed version of Pippo as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The Pippo RCE vulnerability (CVE-2018-18240) poses a critical risk to applications using Pippo versions up to 1.11.0. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands on the target system, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data breaches. To mitigate this risk, it is crucial to upgrade to Pippo version 1.12.0 or later. Developers should also consider implementing input validation and sanitization techniques as a temporary workaround until the upgrade is completed. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for ro.pippo:pippo-core →
FAQ
The vulnerability allows remote code execution, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system. This can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential compromise of the entire application or system.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability. Vulert monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities, using just the pom.xml file without requiring access to the code or installation.
At the time of this advisory, there are no known public exploits specifically targeting this vulnerability. However, it is crucial to apply the recommended fix promptly to prevent any potential exploitation.
Yes, this vulnerability can be exploited remotely. Attackers can send malicious requests to the vulnerable application, triggering the unmarshalling process and executing arbitrary commands on the target system.
Upgrading to the fixed version is the recommended solution. However, if upgrading is not immediately feasible, implementing input validation and sanitization techniques can help mitigate the risk. It is important to note that this is a temporary workaround and should be followed by upgrading to the patched version as soon as possible.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for ro.pippo:pippo-core.
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