CVE-2013-1966 in Struts
Summary
by MITRE
Apache Struts 2 before 2.3.14.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary OGNL code via a crafted request that is not properly handled when using the includeParams attribute in the (1) URL or (2) A tag.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/19/2024
Apache Struts 2 vulnerability CVE-2013-1966 represents a critical remote code execution flaw that affects versions prior to 2.3.14.1. This vulnerability resides in the framework's handling of OGNL (Object-Graph Navigation Language) expressions within the URL and A tags when the includeParams attribute is utilized. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly process user-supplied parameters, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability operates by leveraging the inherent capabilities of OGNL expressions to traverse object graphs and execute methods, allowing attackers to bypass normal security boundaries and gain unauthorized access to the underlying system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious HTTP request containing specially formatted parameters that are processed by the Struts framework. When the includeParams attribute is set to true in either the URL or A tags, the framework attempts to include and process these parameters without adequate sanitization. This creates a condition where OGNL expressions embedded within the parameters can be evaluated by the framework's expression parser, enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the web application. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through standard HTTP request parameters, making it accessible to attackers without requiring special privileges or complex attack vectors. This flaw aligns with CWE-94, which describes improper control of generation of code, and represents a classic example of code injection vulnerability within web application frameworks.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-1966 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it can enable full system compromise and data exfiltration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy malware, establish persistent backdoors, or conduct data breaches against applications built on the affected Struts framework. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. Organizations running vulnerable Struts versions face significant risk of unauthorized access, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations. The attack surface is broad since Struts is widely used across enterprise applications, making this vulnerability a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns. The vulnerability also facilitates lateral movement within networks, as compromised systems can serve as launching points for further attacks against internal infrastructure, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1041 for exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-1966 primarily focus on immediate patching and configuration hardening. Organizations should upgrade to Apache Struts 2.3.14.1 or later versions to address the vulnerability at its source. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures can help reduce the attack surface even when patching is not immediately possible. Security teams should configure web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious parameter patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. The use of parameterized queries and strict input filtering can provide additional protection layers. Organizations should also implement monitoring and logging mechanisms to detect unusual request patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and penetration testing can help identify other potential vulnerabilities within applications built on the Struts framework. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and implementing robust security practices throughout the application lifecycle, as highlighted in security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 standards for vulnerability management and secure coding practices.