CVE-2014-0170 in JBoss Data Virtualization
Summary
by MITRE
Teiid before 8.4.3 and before 8.7 and Red Hat JBoss Data Virtualization 6.0.0 before patch 3 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a crafted request to a REST endpoint, related to an XML External Entity (XXE) issue.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/29/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0170 represents a critical XML External Entity processing flaw affecting Teiid versions prior to 8.4.3 and 8.7, as well as Red Hat JBoss Data Virtualization 6.0.0 before patch 3. This issue stems from insufficient input validation within the REST endpoint implementation, where the system fails to properly sanitize external entity references in XML requests. The flaw specifically manifests when the application processes XML data containing external entity declarations that reference local files on the server system. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious XML requests that include references to sensitive files such as configuration files, system credentials, or other privileged resources accessible to the application process. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-611, which specifically addresses Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Data from Information Repositories, as it enables unauthorized access to internal system resources through the data virtualization layer.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the XML parsing mechanism of the data virtualization platform, where the system's XML processor does not adequately restrict access to external resources during document parsing. When a REST endpoint receives an XML payload containing external entity declarations, the parser attempts to resolve these references, potentially accessing local files on the server. This behavior allows attackers to perform unauthorized file reads, potentially exposing sensitive information such as database connection strings, application configuration files, or system credentials. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the data virtualization layer, where applications often have elevated privileges and access to multiple data sources. The XXE processing flaw enables attackers to leverage the application's legitimate XML processing capabilities to access files that would normally be protected by operating system permissions and access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable further exploitation chains within the target environment. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially gain access to database connection details, which may lead to direct database access and data exfiltration. The vulnerability affects organizations using JBoss Data Virtualization platforms, making it particularly concerning for enterprises that rely on data virtualization for integrating multiple data sources. The attack vector requires minimal privileges and can be executed through standard REST API calls, making it accessible to attackers with basic network access. Organizations may face compliance violations and data breaches if sensitive information is accessed through this vulnerability, as it bypasses traditional access controls and operates within the legitimate application processing pipeline.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-0170 should focus on implementing proper XML parsing restrictions and input validation. Organizations should immediately upgrade to patched versions of Teiid 8.4.3 or 8.7, and Red Hat JBoss Data Virtualization 6.0.0 patch 3 or later. The implementation of XML parser configurations that disable external entity resolution and DTD processing is essential, as outlined in OWASP XML External Entity Prevention Cheat Sheet guidelines. Network segmentation and API access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of REST endpoints to trusted sources only. Additionally, organizations should deploy web application firewalls and input validation mechanisms that can detect and block malicious XML payloads before they reach the vulnerable parsing components. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should verify that the XML processing components properly restrict external entity references and that no alternative attack vectors remain available for exploitation.