Denial of Service Vulnerability in libxstream-java: Stack Overflow Risk
Summary
DEBIAN-CVE-2022-41966: XStream serializes Java objects to XML and back again. Affects libxstream-java versions < 1.4.15-3+deb11u2. Fixed in 1.4.15-3+deb11u2. How to fix ↓
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Background
libxstream-java is a popular library used for serializing Java objects to XML and deserializing XML back into Java objects. It provides a flexible way to convert Java objects into a format that can be easily transmitted or stored. However, versions prior to 1.4.20 are susceptible to a vulnerability that can lead to application crashes under specific conditions.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from the way XStream handles the serialization of collections and maps. Attackers can exploit this by manipulating the input stream, causing recursive hash calculations that lead to a stack overflow error. This results in a denial of service, as the application can terminate unexpectedly. The issue is particularly concerning because it can be triggered remotely, making it a potential vector for attackers to disrupt services.
How To Fix
Minimum fixed version
1.4.15-3+deb11u2
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 you are unable to update the package immediately, a potential workaround is to change the default implementation of java.util.Map and java.util.Set in your application. This can be done by implementing a custom map or set that does not rely on the default hash code implementation. Here is an example code snippet:
import java.util.HashMap;
import java.util.Map;
public class CustomMap<K, V> extends HashMap<K, V> {
// Custom implementation that avoids recursive hash calculations
}
Conclusion
The libxstream-java library has a critical vulnerability that can lead to denial of service through stack overflow errors. It is essential to update to the latest patched versions to protect against potential attacks. Implementing workarounds can provide temporary relief, but updating is the best long-term solution.
See every vulnerability recorded for libxstream-java →
FAQ
The vulnerability allows for a denial of service through stack overflow caused by recursive hash calculations when processing manipulated input streams.
Versions prior to 1.4.20 are affected. Specifically, Debian 11 should be updated to 1.4.15-3+deb11u2 or later, while Debian 12, 13, and 14 should be updated to 1.4.20-1 or later.
You can use Vulert, which monitors and alerts in real-time for open-source vulnerabilities. Check your application against this vulnerability using the Vulert playground at Vulert Scanner.
If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to application crashes, resulting in service downtime and potential data loss.
Yes, you can implement a custom map or set that avoids the default hash code implementation to mitigate the risk until you can update the package.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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