CVE-2015-8965 in Data Integrator
Summary
by MITRE
Rogue Wave JViews before 8.8 patch 21 and 8.9 before patch 1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary Java code that exists in the classpath, such as test code or administration code. The issue exists because the ilog.views.faces.IlvFacesController servlet in jviews-framework-all.jar does not require explicit configuration of servlets that can be called.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/16/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-8965 affects Rogue Wave JViews software versions prior to specific patch releases, creating a critical remote code execution risk. This flaw resides within the ilog.views.faces.IlvFacesController servlet component that is part of the jviews-framework-all.jar library. The vulnerability stems from insufficient access control mechanisms that fail to properly validate which servlet endpoints can be invoked by remote attackers. The affected versions include JViews 8.8 before patch 21 and 8.9 before patch 1, making a significant portion of the software ecosystem susceptible to exploitation.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control issues in software systems. The flaw occurs because the servlet implementation lacks explicit configuration requirements for servlet invocation, allowing attackers to directly access and execute Java code that exists within the application's classpath. This includes not only legitimate application code but also potentially dangerous test code or administration code that should normally be restricted from external access. The absence of proper authentication and authorization checks creates an attack surface where malicious actors can leverage the servlet's functionality to execute arbitrary code on the target system.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations using affected JViews software, as it enables remote attackers to gain full control over the affected systems. The ability to execute arbitrary Java code through the classpath means that attackers can potentially access sensitive data, modify system configurations, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it does not require authentication to exploit, making it an ideal target for automated attacks. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to potential data breaches, system compromise, and disruption of business operations. Organizations that have not applied the necessary patches face significant exposure to sophisticated attack campaigns that could leverage this vulnerability for lateral movement within their networks.
The recommended mitigations for CVE-2015-8965 involve immediate patch application to the affected JViews versions, specifically upgrading to JViews 8.8 patch 21 or 8.9 patch 1. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to affected systems and consider disabling the vulnerable servlet if immediate patching is not feasible. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual servlet access patterns, and access controls should be reviewed to ensure proper authorization mechanisms are in place. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and access control implementation as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and command execution techniques. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected components and ensure that all software dependencies are properly maintained with current security patches to prevent similar exposure scenarios.