CVE-2016-2173 in AMQP
Summary
by MITRE
org.springframework.core.serializer.DefaultDeserializer in Spring AMQP before 1.5.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2173 resides within the DefaultDeserializer class of Spring AMQP versions prior to 1.5.5, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that exploits the deserialization process in message queue systems. This vulnerability specifically affects applications that utilize Spring AMQP for handling message serialization and deserialization operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw stems from insufficient validation of serialized data during the deserialization phase, allowing attackers to craft malicious payloads that bypass normal security boundaries when processed by the DefaultDeserializer component.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of serialized object data within AMQP message queues, where the DefaultDeserializer fails to properly validate the integrity and origin of incoming serialized objects. When an application processes messages containing maliciously crafted serialized data, the deserialization process inadvertently executes code embedded within the serialized payload, enabling remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying system. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-502 category of Deserialization of Untrusted Data, which is classified as a high-risk weakness due to its potential for remote code execution and privilege escalation capabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-2173 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when exploited in environments where Spring AMQP is deployed. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or perform lateral movement within network environments where affected systems reside. The vulnerability affects distributed applications that rely on message queuing for inter-service communication, making it particularly dangerous in microservices architectures and enterprise environments where AMQP brokers serve as critical communication channels between various components. Organizations running vulnerable versions of Spring AMQP are at risk of data breaches, system infiltration, and potential service disruption.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-2173 primarily involve immediate patching of affected Spring AMQP components to version 1.5.5 or later, which includes enhanced validation mechanisms within the DefaultDeserializer. Security teams should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of AMQP services to untrusted networks, while also considering the implementation of message filtering and validation at the application level. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems utilizing affected Spring AMQP versions and establish monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1133 for External Remote Services, highlighting the multi-stage attack approach that attackers may employ when leveraging such deserialization vulnerabilities. Additionally, implementing runtime application protection measures and code integrity verification can provide defense-in-depth strategies to protect against exploitation attempts.