Invalid EL Expression Evaluation in Hibernate Validator - CVE-2020-10693
Summary
CVE-2020-10693: A flaw was found in Hibernate Validator version 6.1.2.Final. Affects libhibernate-validator-java versions >= 6464faa54e83bd9ed4ff1096e927bd67de20e4ad, < 4dc4cd3779c829ca8416caa498a2b790150b7688. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
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Background
Hibernate Validator is a powerful library used for validating Java objects. It provides a way to define validation rules using annotations and supports message interpolation for error messages. The library is widely used in Java applications to ensure data integrity and enforce business rules. However, a flaw in version 6.1.2.Final allows invalid Expression Language (EL) expressions to be evaluated as valid, posing a significant security risk.
Vulnerability Detail
CVE-2020-10693 is a vulnerability found in Hibernate Validator version 6.1.2.Final. The issue arises from a bug in the message interpolation processor, which incorrectly evaluates invalid EL expressions as valid. This flaw enables attackers to bypass input sanitation controls that developers may have implemented when handling user-controlled data in error messages. The potential ramifications include unauthorized access to sensitive information or execution of unintended commands, leading to further exploitation of the application.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
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Workaround
If an immediate upgrade is not possible, consider implementing input validation and sanitization on user-controlled data before it is processed by the Hibernate Validator. This can help mitigate the risk of invalid EL expressions being evaluated. Additionally, review and restrict the use of dynamic expressions in error messages to minimize exposure to this vulnerability.
Conclusion
CVE-2020-10693 represents a significant security risk for applications using Hibernate Validator version 6.1.2.Final. It is crucial for developers to upgrade to a patched version to protect against potential exploitation. Implementing additional input validation can serve as a temporary workaround while an upgrade is planned.
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FAQ
CVE-2020-10693 is a security vulnerability in Hibernate Validator that allows invalid EL expressions to be evaluated as valid, potentially leading to input sanitation bypass.
The vulnerability affects Hibernate Validator version 6.1.2.Final and earlier versions.
Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to bypass input sanitation controls, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data or execution of unintended commands.
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The CVSS score for CVE-2020-10693 is 5.3, indicating a medium severity level.
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