Critical Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in libxstream-java
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2021-39151: 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 widely used library that facilitates the serialization of Java objects to XML and vice versa. It is designed to simplify the process of converting complex data structures into a format that can be easily transmitted or stored. The library is known for its flexibility and ease of use, making it a popular choice among Java developers. However, certain versions of libxstream-java are vulnerable to a critical security flaw that could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as DEBIAN-CVE-2021-39151 allows a remote attacker to manipulate the input stream processed by libxstream-java, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code from a remote host. This issue arises from the library's handling of input data without adequate security measures. If exploited, this vulnerability could compromise the integrity and security of the affected systems, especially if the security framework is not properly configured to limit the types of objects that can be deserialized.
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 of objects that can be deserialized. This can help mitigate the risk of exploitation until the package is updated.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in libxstream-java poses a significant risk, allowing remote code execution through manipulated input streams. It is crucial for users to update to the patched versions as soon as possible and implement security measures to mitigate risks in the meantime.
See every vulnerability recorded for libxstream-java →
FAQ
libxstream-java is a library that allows Java objects to be serialized into XML and deserialized back into Java objects, simplifying data interchange.
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by manipulating the input stream processed by libxstream-java.
You can use the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
Implement a security framework using a whitelist to limit deserialization types as a temporary workaround until you can update.
Detailed information can be found in the Debian CVE database at https://storage.googleapis.com/debian-osv/debian-cve-osv/DEBIAN-CVE-2021-39151.json.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for libxstream-java.
