CVE-2014-0171 in JBoss Data Virtualization
Summary
by MITRE
XML external entity (XXE) vulnerability in StaxXMLFactoryProvider2 in Odata4j, as used in Red Hat JBoss Data Virtualization before 6.0.0 patch 4, allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a crafted request to a REST endpoint.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/11/2022
The CVE-2014-0171 vulnerability represents a critical XML external entity processing flaw that affects the Odata4j library implementation within Red Hat JBoss Data Virtualization. This vulnerability specifically targets the StaxXMLFactoryProvider2 component, which serves as a crucial parsing mechanism for handling XML data within the data virtualization framework. The flaw enables attackers to exploit the XML processing capabilities by manipulating external entity references, creating a pathway for unauthorized data access and system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the XML parsing pipeline. When the StaxXMLFactoryProvider2 component processes incoming XML requests through REST endpoints, it fails to properly restrict external entity resolution, allowing malicious actors to craft specially formatted requests that reference local files on the server. This occurs because the XML parser does not adequately enforce restrictions on external entity declarations, enabling attackers to leverage the processor's ability to resolve external references and access sensitive files. The vulnerability manifests when the system attempts to parse XML content that contains malicious external entity references, leading to unauthorized file reads from the underlying file system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, presenting significant risks to data integrity and system security. Attackers can exploit this flaw to access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, system logs, and potentially other confidential data stored on the server. The vulnerability affects Red Hat JBoss Data Virtualization versions prior to 6.0.0 patch 4, making organizations running these older versions particularly susceptible to data exfiltration attacks. Additionally, the vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for further exploitation, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges or conduct more sophisticated attacks within the compromised environment. The REST endpoint exposure amplifies the risk as these interfaces are often accessible over the network without proper authentication mechanisms in place.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-0171 should prioritize immediate patch application to Red Hat JBoss Data Virtualization versions 6.0.0 patch 4 and later, which contain the necessary fixes to address the XML external entity processing flaw. Organizations should implement comprehensive XML input validation and sanitization measures, ensuring that all external entity references are properly restricted or disabled during XML processing operations. Network segmentation and access control measures should be strengthened to limit exposure of REST endpoints to trusted networks only, while implementing proper authentication and authorization controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-611 (Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference) and maps to ATT&CK technique T1213.002 (External Remote Services) and T1071.004 (Application Layer Protocol: DNS), as it enables unauthorized access through application layer protocols and external service exploitation. Security monitoring should include detection of anomalous XML processing patterns and unusual file access attempts that may indicate exploitation attempts.