CVE-2017-15693 in Geode
Summary
by MITRE
In Apache Geode before v1.4.0, the Geode server stores application objects in serialized form. Certain cluster operations and API invocations cause these objects to be deserialized. A user with DATA:WRITE access to the cluster may be able to cause remote code execution if certain classes are present on the classpath.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/09/2020
Apache Geode versions prior to 1.4.0 contained a critical deserialization vulnerability that could enable remote code execution under specific conditions. The vulnerability stems from the fact that Geode servers store application objects in serialized form and certain cluster operations or API invocations trigger deserialization of these objects. This creates a potential attack vector where maliciously crafted serialized data could be processed and executed on the target system.
The technical flaw exists because the system performs deserialization operations without proper validation of the serialized data. When objects are stored and later retrieved through cluster operations, the deserialization process can be manipulated by an attacker who has DATA:WRITE access to the cluster. This access level allows the attacker to place malicious serialized objects into the system, which are then deserialized during normal cluster operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages legitimate system functionality to execute arbitrary code, making detection more challenging.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe for systems using affected Apache Geode versions. An attacker with DATA:WRITE privileges can escalate their access to full system compromise through remote code execution. This could result in data theft, system infiltration, service disruption, or further lateral movement within the network. The attack requires minimal privileges but can lead to significant security breaches. Organizations running vulnerable versions face potential exposure to attackers who may have legitimate access to the system but seek to exploit this deserialization flaw for malicious purposes.
Mitigation strategies should focus on upgrading to Apache Geode version 1.4.0 or later, which includes fixes for this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to Geode clusters and enforce strict access controls to minimize the risk of unauthorized DATA:WRITE operations. Additional protective measures include monitoring for suspicious deserialization patterns and implementing runtime application self-protection mechanisms. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-502, which addresses deserialization of untrusted data, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for remote code execution through application-specific vulnerabilities. Security teams should also consider implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates and reduce the window of exposure for known vulnerabilities.