CVE-2018-2933 in WebLogic Server
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in the Oracle WebLogic Server component of Oracle Fusion Middleware (subcomponent: WLS Core Components). Supported versions that are affected are 10.3.6.0, 12.1.3.0, 12.2.1.2 and 12.2.1.3. Difficult to exploit vulnerability allows low privileged attacker with network access via HTTP to compromise Oracle WebLogic Server. While the vulnerability is in Oracle WebLogic Server, attacks may significantly impact additional products. Successful attacks of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized update, insert or delete access to some of Oracle WebLogic Server accessible data as well as unauthorized read access to a subset of Oracle WebLogic Server accessible data. Note: Please refer to MOS document
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-2933 represents a critical security flaw within Oracle WebLogic Server's WLS Core Components, specifically affecting versions 10.3.6.0, 12.1.3.0, 12.2.1.2, and 12.2.1.3. This vulnerability operates as a remote code execution flaw that enables attackers with minimal privileges to gain unauthorized access to sensitive server resources through HTTP network connections. The weakness stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the WebLogic Server's core components, creating an exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking to compromise enterprise infrastructure. The vulnerability's classification as difficult to exploit indicates that while sophisticated attack techniques are required, the potential impact remains severe enough to warrant immediate attention from security professionals.
The technical nature of this vulnerability places it within the scope of CWE-20, which describes improper input validation issues that can lead to various security consequences including unauthorized data access and modification. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can achieve unauthorized update, insert, and delete operations against Oracle WebLogic Server accessible data, while also gaining read access to sensitive information within the server's data stores. The attack surface extends beyond the immediate WebLogic Server environment, potentially affecting additional Oracle products that may be integrated within the same infrastructure. This cross-product impact demonstrates the interconnected nature of enterprise middleware environments where a single vulnerability can cascade through multiple systems, creating widespread security implications for organizations relying on Oracle Fusion Middleware solutions.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-2933 extends significantly beyond traditional data breach scenarios, as successful exploitation enables attackers to manipulate business-critical data and potentially disrupt operational workflows within enterprise environments. Organizations utilizing affected WebLogic Server versions face substantial risk of data integrity compromise, where unauthorized modifications to database records or configuration settings could lead to financial losses, regulatory compliance violations, and operational disruptions. The vulnerability's network-based attack vector means that organizations with exposed WebLogic Server instances are particularly at risk, as attackers can potentially exploit this flaw from external networks without requiring physical access or elevated privileges. Security teams must consider the implications of this vulnerability within the broader context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the T1059.007 technique related to application layer command injection, which aligns with the nature of the exploitation mechanism.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-2933 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from Oracle's security advisories, as this represents the most effective defense against exploitation attempts. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of WebLogic Server instances to untrusted networks, while also deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious HTTP traffic patterns. Security monitoring should focus on detecting anomalous data access patterns and unauthorized modifications to critical server components. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of affected WebLogic Server versions within their infrastructure, as the vulnerability's impact extends to integrated Oracle products that may not be immediately apparent. The remediation process should include thorough testing of patches in staging environments before production deployment to ensure continued system stability and functionality while addressing the identified security weakness.