CVE-2013-1768 in WebLogic Server
Summary
by MITRE
The BrokerFactory functionality in Apache OpenJPA 1.x before 1.2.3 and 2.x before 2.2.2 creates local executable JSP files containing logging trace data produced during deserialization of certain crafted OpenJPA objects, which makes it easier for remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by creating a serialized object and leveraging improperly secured server programs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/02/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-1768 represents a critical security flaw within Apache OpenJPA's BrokerFactory functionality that affects versions prior to 1.2.3 and 2.2.2. This issue stems from improper handling of serialized objects during the deserialization process, creating a dangerous attack vector that allows remote adversaries to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the system processes crafted OpenJPA objects that contain logging trace data, which are then written to local executable JSP files on the server filesystem.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of Java deserialization mechanisms within the OpenJPA framework. When the BrokerFactory processes serialized objects containing malicious payloads, it inadvertently creates local JSP files that are executable and contain trace data from the deserialization process. This occurs because the system fails to properly validate or sanitize the serialized object content before processing it through the deserialization pipeline. The crafted objects are designed to trigger the creation of these executable files, which can then be executed by the web server, effectively providing attackers with a code execution foothold on the target system.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to organizations running affected Apache OpenJPA versions as it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication or privileged access. The attack chain begins with crafting a malicious serialized object that, when processed by the vulnerable system, results in the creation of executable JSP files. These files can then be leveraged to execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through network-based attacks without requiring direct access to the system, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools and malicious actors.
The security implications of CVE-2013-1768 align with CWE-502, which addresses deserialization of untrusted data, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for scripting languages and T1566 for phishing with malicious attachments. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided patches to versions 1.2.3 and 2.2.2 or higher to remediate this vulnerability. Additional mitigations include implementing proper input validation and sanitization for serialized objects, restricting network access to affected systems, and monitoring for suspicious JSP file creation patterns. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit access to OpenJPA services, while security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual file creation activities and unauthorized code execution attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper deserialization security practices and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of serialization mechanisms in enterprise applications.