CVE-2025-54656: Apache Struts Extras Improper Output Neutralization for Logs Vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2025-54656: Apache Struts Extras Before 2 has an Improper Output Neutralization for Logs Vulnerability. Affects org.apache.struts:struts-extras versions < 1.3.10. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
Apache Struts is a popular open-source framework for building web applications in Java. It provides a robust architecture for developing enterprise-level applications, allowing developers to create dynamic web content. The Struts Extras module extends the core functionality of Struts, offering additional features and utilities. However, the Struts Extras package has been found to have a vulnerability that can lead to improper handling of log outputs, potentially exposing sensitive information.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-54656 is an improper output neutralization for logs in Apache Struts Extras, specifically affecting versions prior to 2. This issue arises when using the LookupDispatchAction, where untrusted input may be printed to the logs without adequate filtering. This can result in specially-crafted input that confuses log consumers by masquerading part of the message as a separate log line. The ramifications include potential information leakage and confusion in log analysis, which can hinder incident response and monitoring efforts.
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 →
Workaround
To mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability, restrict access to the application instance to trusted users only. Additionally, consider implementing logging filters to sanitize log outputs and prevent untrusted input from being logged. This can be done by configuring your logging framework to escape or remove sensitive information before it is written to the logs.
Conclusion
The CVE-2025-54656 vulnerability in Apache Struts Extras poses a moderate risk due to improper output neutralization for logs. As the project is no longer maintained, users must take proactive measures by either migrating to supported alternatives or implementing workarounds to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
See every vulnerability recorded for org.apache.struts:struts-extras →
FAQ
CVE-2025-54656 is a vulnerability in Apache Struts Extras that allows improper output neutralization for logs, potentially leading to information leakage.
All versions of Apache Struts Extras prior to 2 are affected by this vulnerability.
No, there is no patch available as the Apache Struts Extras project is retired. Users are advised to find alternatives.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities using just your pom.xml. Visit Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected.
If upgrading is not an option, restrict access to the application and implement logging filters to sanitize log outputs.
