CVE-2014-0094 in Struts
Summary
by MITRE
The ParametersInterceptor in Apache Struts before 2.3.16.2 allows remote attackers to "manipulate" the ClassLoader via the class parameter, which is passed to the getClass method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0094 represents a critical security flaw in Apache Struts framework versions prior to 2.3.16.1, specifically within the ParametersInterceptor component. This vulnerability exposes a dangerous path for remote code execution through improper handling of class loading mechanisms. The flaw occurs when the framework processes parameters containing class names, particularly those passed through the class parameter, which then gets processed through the getClass method. This creates an attack surface where malicious actors can manipulate the ClassLoader to load arbitrary classes, potentially leading to full system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the inherent trust placed in parameter processing within the Struts framework. When the ParametersInterceptor encounters a class parameter, it does not properly validate or sanitize the input before passing it to the getClass method. This allows attackers to specify arbitrary class names that can be resolved through the application's ClassLoader, enabling them to load classes from the application's classpath or even from external sources if the ClassLoader is configured to allow such access. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-20, which deals with improper input validation, and specifically relates to CWE-502, concerning deserialization of untrusted data, though in this case the attack vector involves class loading rather than serialization.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-0094 is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability can be exploited through web applications built on Apache Struts, potentially allowing attackers to gain complete control over the affected servers. The attack requires no special privileges beyond access to the web application's parameters, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The vulnerability can be exploited to perform various malicious activities including data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and persistent backdoor installation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python) and T1566.001 (Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment), as it enables attackers to execute commands through the application layer and can be used in conjunction with social engineering attacks.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2014-0094 primarily involves upgrading to Apache Struts version 2.3.16.1 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization for class parameters. Organizations should also implement parameter filtering at the application level, particularly for parameters that could potentially influence class loading behavior. Additional protective measures include deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious parameter patterns, implementing strict input validation rules, and conducting regular security assessments of web applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper sandboxing and access controls around class loading mechanisms, aligning with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime application self-protection mechanisms to detect and prevent exploitation attempts in real-time, as this vulnerability can be particularly challenging to detect through traditional security scanning approaches.