Denial of Service Vulnerability in libcommons-fileupload-java: Apache Commons FileUpload Prior to 1.3.1
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2014-0050: MultipartStream.java in Apache Commons FileUpload before 1.3.1, as used in Apache Tomcat, JBoss Web, and other products, allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service (infinite loop and CPU consumption) via a craf... Affects libcommons-fileupload-java versions < 1.3.1-1. Fixed in 1.3.1-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
libcommons-fileupload-java is a Java library that provides support for handling file uploads in web applications. It is widely used in various Java-based frameworks and servers, including Apache Tomcat and JBoss Web. The library allows developers to easily manage file uploads from clients, ensuring that files are processed correctly and securely. However, prior to version 1.3.1, the library contained a vulnerability that could be exploited by attackers to cause denial of service.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from an issue in MultipartStream.java within Apache Commons FileUpload versions before 1.3.1. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted Content-Type header that bypasses the intended exit conditions of a loop in the code. This can lead to an infinite loop, resulting in excessive CPU consumption and potentially crashing the server. The vulnerability poses a significant risk to applications relying on this library, as it can disrupt service availability and degrade performance.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.3.1-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libcommons-fileupload-javaTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, consider implementing input validation on the Content-Type header to reject any suspicious or malformed requests that could trigger the vulnerability. This may involve adding checks in your application to ensure that only expected Content-Type values are processed.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in libcommons-fileupload-java poses a serious risk of denial of service due to improper handling of Content-Type headers. It is crucial for developers and system administrators to update to the patched version to ensure the security and stability of their applications. Additionally, implementing input validation can serve as a temporary measure to mitigate potential attacks.
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FAQ
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to cause a denial of service by exploiting a crafted Content-Type header, leading to an infinite loop and high CPU usage.
Versions prior to 1.3.1 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By using the Vulert playground, you can check if your application is affected without requiring access to the code.
Update the libcommons-fileupload-java package to version 1.3.1-1 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Implementing input validation on the Content-Type header can help prevent exploitation by rejecting suspicious requests.
References
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