Reflected File Download Vulnerability in libspring-java: CVE-2015-5211

libspring-java Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

25/05/2017
N/A
Yes i
Critical
9.6

CVE-2015-5211: Under some situations, the Spring Framework 4.2.0 to 4.2.1, 4.0.0 to 4.1.7, 3.2.0 to 3.2.14 and older unsupported versions is vulnerable to a Reflected File Download (RFD) attack. Affects libspring-java versions < 4.1.9-1. Fixed in 4.1.9-1. How to fix ↓

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Background

libspring-java is a core component of the Spring Framework, widely used for building enterprise-level applications in Java. It provides comprehensive infrastructure support for developing Java applications, including features for dependency injection, transaction management, and web application development. However, certain versions of this package are vulnerable to a Reflected File Download (RFD) attack, which can lead to unauthorized file downloads.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-5211 affects versions 4.2.0 to 4.2.1, 4.0.0 to 4.1.7, and 3.2.0 to 3.2.14 of the Spring Framework. It allows an attacker to craft a malicious URL that, when accessed, triggers the download of a file instead of rendering it in the browser. This can lead to the execution of arbitrary scripts on the user's machine, potentially compromising sensitive information and system integrity. The attack exploits the way user input is reflected in the response, making it critical for users to update their libraries to mitigate this risk.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

4.1.9-1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libspring-java

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Workaround

If immediate updating is not possible, consider implementing input validation and sanitization to prevent malicious URLs from being processed. Additionally, restrict access to sensitive endpoints that may be exploited through this vulnerability.

Conclusion

CVE-2015-5211 is a critical vulnerability in the libspring-java package that can lead to serious security risks through Reflected File Download attacks. It is essential for users to update their libraries to the fixed version to safeguard their applications from potential exploits.

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FAQ

CVE-2015-5211 is a vulnerability in the Spring Framework that allows for a Reflected File Download attack, potentially leading to unauthorized file downloads.

Affected versions include 4.2.0 to 4.2.1, 4.0.0 to 4.1.7, and 3.2.0 to 3.2.14.

The risks include unauthorized file downloads, execution of malicious scripts, and compromise of sensitive information.

You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without requiring any signup.

The CVSS score for CVE-2015-5211 is 9.6, indicating a critical level of severity.

Related vulnerabilities

Recent vulnerabilities recorded for libspring-java.

How To Fix

Minimum fixed version

4.1.9-1

This is the first release that contains the fix.

sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libspring-java

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