CVE-2018-1904 in WebSphere Application Server
Summary
by MITRE
IBM WebSphere Application Server 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0 could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary Java code through an administrative client class with a serialized object from untrusted sources. IBM X-Force ID: 152533.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/18/2023
IBM WebSphere Application Server versions 7.0, 8.0, 8.5, and 9.0 contain a critical vulnerability that enables remote code execution through deserialization of untrusted data within administrative client components. This vulnerability arises from the application server's improper handling of serialized Java objects received from remote clients, specifically within the administrative interface functionality. The flaw exists in the server's deserialization process where it accepts serialized objects without adequate validation or sanitization, creating an attack surface that allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary Java code directly into the running application server process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the server's reliance on Java's native serialization mechanism for administrative communications. When the WebSphere server processes serialized objects from administrative clients, it fails to properly validate the source or content of these objects before deserializing them. This creates a classic deserialization vulnerability that aligns with CWE-502, which specifically addresses "Deserialization of Untrusted Data" in software applications. Attackers can craft malicious serialized objects that, when processed by the vulnerable server, trigger the execution of arbitrary code with the privileges of the application server process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it provides remote attackers with complete control over the affected WebSphere instances. Successful exploitation allows adversaries to execute commands on the server, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects multiple major versions of IBM WebSphere, making it particularly dangerous as organizations with legacy systems may be unaware of their exposure. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1078.004 "Valid Accounts: Cloud Accounts" when attackers leverage the compromised server for additional reconnaissance or persistence.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant IBM security patches and updates released for this vulnerability. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict administrative access to WebSphere servers, limiting exposure to trusted networks only. The application server configuration should be reviewed to disable unnecessary administrative interfaces and reduce the attack surface. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms for all serialized data processing can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future, aligning with security best practices recommended by NIST SP 800-53 and OWASP Top Ten security controls.