CVE-2012-4386 in Struts
Summary
by MITRE
The token check mechanism in Apache Struts 2.0.0 through 2.3.4 does not properly validate the token name configuration parameter, which allows remote attackers to perform cross-site request forgery (CSRF) attacks by setting the token name configuration parameter to a session attribute.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2012-4386 represents a critical security flaw in Apache Struts 2 framework versions ranging from 2.0.0 through 2.3.4. This issue specifically targets the token check mechanism that is designed to prevent cross-site request forgery attacks by validating user tokens during form submissions. The flaw occurs when the framework fails to properly validate the token name configuration parameter, creating a pathway for malicious actors to bypass the intended security controls. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity of the CSRF protection mechanisms that developers rely on to secure their web applications against unauthorized requests.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper validation of the token name parameter within the Struts 2 framework's token handling system. When developers configure token validation in their applications, they specify a token name that should be used for validation purposes. However, due to the flawed validation logic, attackers can manipulate this parameter to point to a session attribute instead of a properly configured token. This manipulation allows malicious actors to forge requests that appear legitimate to the application's validation system, effectively neutralizing the CSRF protection measures. The vulnerability operates at the application level and requires no special privileges or access to the underlying system, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through standard web browser interactions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple CSRF attacks, as it fundamentally undermines the security model that developers expect from the Struts framework. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform unauthorized actions on behalf of authenticated users, potentially leading to data manipulation, account takeovers, or privilege escalation within affected applications. The vulnerability affects applications that utilize the Struts 2 token interceptor for CSRF protection, which is a common pattern in many enterprise web applications. Organizations running vulnerable versions of Struts 2 face significant risk of exploitation, as the attack vector requires minimal technical expertise and can be automated using standard web attack tools.
Organizations should immediately upgrade to Apache Struts 2.3.5 or later versions to remediate this vulnerability, as the patch addresses the root cause by implementing proper validation of the token name configuration parameter. Additionally, security teams should conduct comprehensive audits of their Struts 2 applications to identify any instances where the token interceptor is being used and ensure proper configuration parameters are in place. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-352, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Request Forgery, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Credential Access through session manipulation. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as Content Security Policy headers and proper input validation to provide defense-in-depth against similar vulnerabilities. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify any other potential CSRF vulnerabilities that may exist within the application portfolio.