CVE-2013-2115 in Struts
Summary
by MITRE
Apache Struts 2 before 2.3.14.2 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. NOTE: this issue is due to an incomplete fix for CVE-2013-1966.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2024
Apache Struts 2 vulnerability CVE-2013-2115 represents a critical remote code execution flaw that emerged from an incomplete remediation of a previous vulnerability. This vulnerability affects Apache Struts 2 versions prior to 2.3.14.2 and specifically targets the improper handling of request parameters when utilizing the includeParams attribute within both URL and A tags. The flaw stems from insufficient validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user input before processing it through the Object-Graph Navigation Language OGNL expression engine. When attackers craft malicious requests containing specially formatted parameters, the system processes these inputs without adequate filtering, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution on the affected server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability operates through the exploitation of parameter handling within Struts 2's tag libraries, particularly when the includeParams attribute is utilized. The includeParams functionality is designed to pass parameters from the current request to the target URL or action, but the incomplete fix for CVE-2013-1966 left gaps in the validation logic. This allows attackers to inject OGNL expressions that bypass normal security controls and execute arbitrary commands on the server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-94, which represents "Improper Control of Generation of Code" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.006 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" as the execution method. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of insufficient input sanitization where user-controllable parameters are directly interpreted by the OGNL engine without proper escaping or validation.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-2115 is severe and potentially catastrophic for organizations running vulnerable Apache Struts 2 applications. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web application server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, perform lateral movement within the network, or deploy additional malware. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. Organizations using vulnerable versions of Struts 2 may experience data breaches, service disruptions, and compliance violations, with potential financial and reputational damage. The vulnerability affects web applications that utilize the URL and A tags with includeParams functionality, which is common in many enterprise applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-2115 require immediate action to upgrade to Apache Struts 2 version 2.3.14.2 or later, which contains the complete fix for this vulnerability. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all affected systems are updated promptly. Additionally, network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit access to vulnerable applications, while input validation and parameter filtering should be implemented at multiple layers of the application architecture. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious parameter patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The fix addresses the root cause by properly validating and sanitizing parameters before processing them through the OGNL engine, preventing the injection of malicious expressions. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of vulnerable Struts 2 applications within their environment and implement web application firewalls to provide additional protection layers against exploitation attempts.