CVE-2007-0418 in WebLogic Server
Summary
by MITRE
BEA WebLogic Server 7.0 through 7.0 SP6, 8.1 through 8.1 SP5, 9.0, and 9.1 does not enforce a security policy that declares permissions for EJB methods that have array parameters, which allows remote attackers to obtain unauthorized access to these methods.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2019
BEA WebLogic Server versions 7.0 through 7.0 SP6, 8.1 through 8.1 SP5, 9.0, and 9.1 contain a critical security flaw that stems from insufficient enforcement of security policies for Enterprise JavaBeans methods with array parameters. This vulnerability represents a fundamental breakdown in the server's access control mechanisms, specifically targeting the security enforcement layer that should validate method permissions before execution. The flaw exists within the EJB security framework where the server fails to properly validate access controls for methods that accept array parameters, creating a pathway for unauthorized remote exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability lies in the server's method permission checking mechanism which does not adequately handle array-typed parameters during security policy evaluation. When EJB methods are invoked with array parameters, the security policy enforcement logic fails to properly validate whether the calling principal has appropriate permissions for the method execution. This creates a scenario where attackers can bypass normal access controls by crafting specific method calls that exploit this gap in the security validation process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects multiple major versions of the WebLogic Server platform, indicating a systemic issue rather than an isolated flaw.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations running affected WebLogic Server versions, as it allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to EJB methods that should be protected. The impact extends beyond simple data access to potentially enable privilege escalation and system compromise, depending on the sensitive nature of the affected EJB methods. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code within the application server context, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any network location without requiring physical access or prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where servers are often exposed to external networks.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including applying the appropriate security patches released by BEA Systems, which address the core security policy enforcement flaw in the EJB subsystem. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to WebLogic Server instances, particularly those running affected versions. The security policy configuration should be reviewed and strengthened to ensure proper method-level access controls are enforced, with additional monitoring implemented to detect unauthorized access attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically addressing insufficient access control enforcement, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts for maintaining persistent access and T1046 Network Service Scanning for reconnaissance activities. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of inadequate input validation and access control enforcement that violates fundamental security principles and requires immediate remediation to prevent exploitation.