CVE-2023-46604: Apache ActiveMQ Remote Code Execution
Summary
CVE-2023-46604: Apache ActiveMQ is vulnerable to Remote Code Execution. Affects org.apache.activemq:activemq-client across 4 version ranges.
< 5.15.16
>= 5.16.0, < 5.16.7
>= 5.17.0, < 5.17.6
>= 5.18.0, < 5.18.3
Fixed in 4 releases; the minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
Also tracked for
The same CVE-2023-46604 is tracked separately for each ecosystem and vendor. Its fix information is the same; the package and affected versions differ.
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Background
Apache ActiveMQ is an open-source message broker that allows applications to communicate with each other using various messaging protocols. It provides reliable and scalable messaging functionality for distributed systems. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in Apache ActiveMQ that allows remote code execution.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability in Apache ActiveMQ allows a remote attacker with network access to a broker to run arbitrary shell commands. This can be achieved by manipulating serialized class types in the OpenWire protocol, which causes the broker to instantiate any class on the classpath. This can lead to unauthorized execution of commands and potential compromise of the affected system. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 10.0, indicating its critical severity.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 6.3.2 as of 23 Oct 2026
Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the versions below are the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you can't move to the latest
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
< 5.15.165.15.16 -
>= 5.16.0, < 5.16.75.16.7 -
>= 5.17.0, < 5.17.65.17.6 -
>= 5.18.0, < 5.18.35.18.3
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Workaround
There is no known workaround for this vulnerability. Upgrading to the fixed versions is the only recommended solution.
Conclusion
Apache ActiveMQ is vulnerable to remote code execution, which can allow attackers to run arbitrary shell commands on the affected system. Users are strongly advised to upgrade their installations to the fixed versions to mitigate this vulnerability. For further support on vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
See every vulnerability recorded for org.apache.activemq:activemq-client →
FAQ
Apache ActiveMQ is an open-source message broker that facilitates communication between applications using various messaging protocols.
The vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary shell commands on the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access and compromise.
To fix this vulnerability, upgrade your Apache ActiveMQ installation to one of the recommended fixed versions: 5.15.16, 5.16.7, 5.17.6, or 5.18.3.
No, there are no known workarounds for this vulnerability. Upgrading to the fixed versions is the only solution.
The CVSS score of this vulnerability is 10.0, indicating its critical severity.
References
Related vulnerabilities
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