Critical Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in libxstream-java
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2021-39148: XStream is a simple library to serialize objects to XML and back again. Affects libxstream-java versions < 1.4.15-3+deb11u1. Fixed in 1.4.15-3+deb11u1. How to fix ↓
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Background
libxstream-java is a Java library that facilitates the serialization of objects to XML and vice versa. It is widely used for converting Java objects into XML format for data interchange and storage. The library is designed to be flexible and easy to use, but its functionality also exposes it to certain security risks, particularly when handling untrusted input. This vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the library's deserialization process, potentially leading to severe security breaches.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as DEBIAN-CVE-2021-39148 allows a remote attacker to load and execute arbitrary code from a remote host by manipulating the processed input stream. This issue arises from the library's handling of untrusted data, which, if not properly secured, can lead to unauthorized code execution. Users who have not implemented XStream's security framework with a strict whitelist of allowed types are particularly at risk. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the library across various Debian releases, making it critical for users to address it promptly.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.4.15-3+deb11u1
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
As a temporary workaround, users are advised to implement XStream's security framework by setting up a whitelist that limits the types allowed for deserialization. This can help mitigate the risk until the package is updated. For example, configure the security framework as follows:
XStream xstream = new XStream();
// Allow only specific classes
xstream.allowTypes(new Class[]{AllowedClass1.class, AllowedClass2.class});
Conclusion
The vulnerability in libxstream-java presents a serious risk of remote code execution, affecting multiple Debian versions. Users are strongly encouraged to update to the patched versions and implement security best practices to safeguard their applications against potential exploitation.
See every vulnerability recorded for libxstream-java →
FAQ
The vulnerability allows remote code execution through manipulated input streams, posing a significant security risk.
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Affected versions include those prior to 1.4.15-3+deb11u1 for Debian 11 and prior to 1.4.18-1 for Debian 12, 13, and 14.
Yes, implementing a security framework with a strict whitelist of allowed types can help mitigate the risk.
If immediate updates are not possible, ensure that your application is configured to use a secure whitelist for deserialization.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for libxstream-java.
