CVE-2014-0113 in Struts
Summary
by MITRE
CookieInterceptor in Apache Struts before 2.3.20, when a wildcard cookiesName value is used, does not properly restrict access to the getClass method, which allows remote attackers to "manipulate" the ClassLoader and execute arbitrary code via a crafted request. NOTE: this vulnerability exists because of an incomplete fix for CVE-2014-0094.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/12/2026
The vulnerability described in CVE-2014-0113 represents a critical security flaw in Apache Struts web application framework versions prior to 2.3.16.2. This issue specifically affects the CookieInterceptor component which is responsible for handling HTTP cookies within the Struts framework. The vulnerability arises from an incomplete remediation of a previously discovered flaw, CVE-2014-0094, creating a persistent security risk that enables remote code execution through improper access controls. The flaw manifests when wildcard cookie names are utilized, exposing a dangerous method access path that bypasses normal security restrictions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the CookieInterceptor's inadequate handling of the getClass method access within its class loader manipulation logic. When wildcard cookie names are configured, the interceptor fails to properly validate or restrict access to the getClass method, which is a fundamental Java reflection mechanism that provides access to class metadata and loading capabilities. This improper access control allows attackers to exploit the ClassLoader's functionality through crafted HTTP requests, effectively enabling arbitrary code execution on the target server. The vulnerability operates at the core of Java's reflection API and class loading mechanisms, making it particularly dangerous as it can bypass traditional security boundaries.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to web applications built on Apache Struts framework, as it enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code without requiring authentication or specific user interaction. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially compromise entire server environments, allowing attackers to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy additional malicious payloads. The vulnerability affects any application using wildcard cookie name patterns in CookieInterceptor configuration, making it widespread across numerous production systems that rely on Struts framework components. Security teams must understand that this flaw can be exploited through simple HTTP requests containing crafted cookie values, making it particularly attractive to automated attack tools.
The remediation strategy for CVE-2014-0113 requires immediate upgrade to Apache Struts version 2.3.16.2 or later, which contains the complete fix for both CVE-2014-0113 and its predecessor CVE-2014-0094. Organizations should also review their CookieInterceptor configurations to ensure wildcard cookie name patterns are not being used, or implement additional access controls to restrict.getClass method access. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious cookie values and unusual ClassLoader manipulation patterns. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically Java-based command execution. The flaw demonstrates how incomplete security patches can create persistent vulnerabilities, emphasizing the critical importance of comprehensive vulnerability remediation and thorough testing of security fixes before deployment in production environments.