CVE-2014-125112 in Plack::Middleware::Session::Cookie
Summary
by MITRE • 03/26/2026
Plack::Middleware::Session::Cookie versions through 0.21 for Perl allows remote code execution.
Plack::Middleware::Session::Cookie versions through 0.21 has a security vulnerability where it allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the server during deserialization of the cookie data, when there is no secret used to sign the cookie.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/26/2026
The Plack::Middleware::Session::Cookie module represents a critical security vulnerability that affects Perl web applications leveraging the Plack framework. This vulnerability specifically targets versions 0.21 and earlier, creating a remote code execution vector that can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized control over affected servers. The flaw exists within the session management middleware component that handles cookie-based authentication and session persistence for web applications. When applications fail to implement proper cookie signing mechanisms, the vulnerability becomes exploitable through maliciously crafted cookie data that can be manipulated during the deserialization process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and deserialization handling within the cookie processing pipeline. The module's design assumes that cookie data can be trusted and directly deserialized without proper security checks or validation mechanisms. When no secret key is configured to sign the cookies, the system becomes vulnerable to manipulation attacks where attackers can craft malicious cookie payloads that, when processed, trigger arbitrary code execution on the server. This represents a classic deserialization vulnerability where untrusted data is interpreted and executed without proper sanitization or verification procedures. The vulnerability falls under the category of insecure deserialization as defined by CWE-502, where the application deserializes untrusted data without adequate protection mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation or data theft, as it allows full remote code execution capabilities that can lead to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary commands on the affected server, potentially gaining access to sensitive data, modifying application behavior, or using the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects web applications built on Perl frameworks that utilize Plack middleware for session management, making it particularly concerning for organizations running legacy Perl applications or those that have not updated their dependencies. The risk is amplified when applications are deployed in production environments without proper security configurations or when administrators fail to implement proper cookie signing practices.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their systems. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to version 0.22 or later of the Plack::Middleware::Session::Cookie module, which includes proper cookie signing mechanisms and enhanced validation procedures. Additionally, administrators should ensure that all cookie data is properly signed using strong secret keys and that applications implement proper input validation before deserializing any cookie information. The implementation of security controls such as web application firewalls and runtime monitoring can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1203 for exploitation for client execution, emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures including proper access controls, network segmentation, and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across the application infrastructure.