CVE-2021-30179: Deserialization of Untrusted Data in Apache Dubbo
Summary
CVE-2021-30179: Deserialization of Untrusted Data in Apache Dubbo. Affects org.apache.dubbo:dubbo versions >= 2.5.0, < 2.7.10. Fixed in 2.7.10. How to fix ↓
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Background
Apache Dubbo is an open-source, high-performance, and lightweight Java RPC framework. It provides a distributed architecture for building scalable and efficient applications. Dubbo supports generic calls to arbitrary methods exposed by provider interfaces. These invocations are handled by the GenericFilter, which uses Java Reflection API to make the final call. The vulnerability in Apache Dubbo allows an attacker to control the Remote Procedure Call (RPC) attachment and force the Java deserialization of untrusted data, leading to potential remote code execution.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in Apache Dubbo arises from the handling of generic calls to arbitrary methods. By setting the RPC attachment to 'nativejava', an attacker can trigger the deserialization of a byte array located in the third argument of the method invocation. This can be exploited to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The impact of this vulnerability is critical, as it allows remote attackers to compromise the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of the affected system.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 3.3.6 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
2.7.10
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 GenericFilter in the Dubbo configuration. By removing or commenting out the GenericFilter configuration, the vulnerability can be mitigated. However, this workaround may limit the functionality of generic calls to arbitrary methods.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in Apache Dubbo allows for the deserialization of untrusted data, leading to potential remote code execution. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade to the latest version of Apache Dubbo and follow secure coding practices. If immediate upgrade is not possible, disabling the GenericFilter can serve as a temporary workaround. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
Apache Dubbo is an open-source Java RPC framework that provides a distributed architecture for building scalable and efficient applications.
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system, compromising its integrity, confidentiality, and availability.
To fix this vulnerability, upgrade to Apache Dubbo version 2.7.10 or later and rebuild your applications. Follow secure coding practices and validate all inputs.
Yes, you can temporarily disable the GenericFilter in the Dubbo configuration to mitigate the vulnerability. However, this may limit the functionality of generic calls.
You can find more information about this vulnerability in the Apache Dubbo advisory and the CVE entry (CVE-2021-30179).
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