Critical Deserialization Vulnerability in libxstream-java: Remote Command Execution Risk
Summary
CVE-2019-10173: It was found that xstream API version 1.4.10 before 1.4.11 introduced a regression for a previous deserialization flaw. Affects libxstream-java across 2 version ranges.
< 1.4.11-1
< 4d9499729007ef6090a9989db60099c72f8eb983
Fixed in 1.4.11-1. How to fix ↓
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Background
libxstream-java is a popular library used for serializing and deserializing Java objects to and from XML and other formats like JSON. It is widely utilized in various applications for its ease of use and flexibility. However, a regression introduced in version 1.4.10 before 1.4.11 has made it vulnerable to a serious deserialization flaw, allowing potential attackers to execute arbitrary shell commands if the security framework is not properly initialized.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2019-10173, stems from a regression in the xstream API that affects versions prior to 1.4.11. If the security framework is not initialized, an attacker can exploit this flaw during the unmarshalling process of XML or JSON data, leading to remote command execution. This issue is a regression of a previously fixed vulnerability (CVE-2013-7285), indicating that the problem has re-emerged in newer versions of the library. The potential ramifications include unauthorized access to the system, data breaches, and complete system compromise.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.4.11-1
This is the first release that contains the fix.
sudo apt-get install --only-upgrade libxstream-javaTip — Not sure which version your app runs? Vulert can match this fix to it. Scan free →
Workaround
If upgrading is not immediately feasible, consider disabling the deserialization feature or ensuring that the security framework is properly initialized before processing any untrusted XML or JSON data. This can help mitigate the risk until a proper fix is applied.
Conclusion
The CVE-2019-10173 vulnerability in libxstream-java poses a significant risk due to its potential for remote command execution. It is crucial for users of this library to upgrade to the latest version to mitigate this risk. Additionally, utilizing tools like Vulert can help monitor and alert for such vulnerabilities in real-time.
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FAQ
CVE-2019-10173 is a critical vulnerability in the libxstream-java library that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands due to improper handling of deserialization.
You can use Vulert's playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without needing to sign up.
Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potentially complete control over the affected system.
Yes, a patch is available in version 1.4.11-1 of the libxstream-java package. It is recommended to upgrade to this version or later.
If immediate upgrading is not possible, ensure that the security framework is initialized before processing untrusted data, or consider disabling deserialization features as a temporary workaround.
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