CVE-2019-0189 in OFBiz
Summary
by MITRE
The java.io.ObjectInputStream is known to cause Java serialisation issues. This issue here is exposed by the "webtools/control/httpService" URL, and uses Java deserialization to perform code execution. In the HttpEngine, the value of the request parameter "serviceContext" is passed to the "deserialize" method of "XmlSerializer". Apache Ofbiz is affected via two different dependencies: "commons-beanutils" and an out-dated version of "commons-fileupload" Mitigation: Upgrade to 16.11.06 or manually apply the commits from OFBIZ-10770 and OFBIZ-10837 on branch 16
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/20/2020
The vulnerability described in CVE-2019-0189 represents a critical Java deserialization flaw within Apache Ofbiz that enables remote code execution through the webtools/control/httpService endpoint. This vulnerability stems from the insecure handling of serialized Java objects within the ObjectInputStream class, which allows attackers to craft malicious serialized data that can be executed upon deserialization. The attack vector specifically targets the serviceContext request parameter that flows through the XmlSerializer's deserialize method, creating a direct pathway for arbitrary code execution on the affected system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the improper validation and deserialization of input data within the HttpEngine component of Apache Ofbiz. When the serviceContext parameter is processed, it passes through the XmlSerializer's deserialize method without adequate security checks, allowing malicious serialized objects to be executed within the Java runtime environment. This flaw is particularly dangerous because it leverages the inherent capabilities of Java's serialization mechanism to execute arbitrary code, bypassing traditional security controls that might otherwise prevent such attacks. The vulnerability manifests through the webtools/control/httpService URL endpoint, which serves as the primary attack surface for exploiting the deserialization issue.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-0189 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to the underlying system, potentially escalating privileges and moving laterally within the network infrastructure. The affected Apache Ofbiz versions are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on outdated dependencies including commons-beanutils and commons-fileupload, which contain known security issues that compound the overall risk. This vulnerability affects organizations using Apache Ofbiz versions prior to 16.11.06, making it a significant concern for businesses that have not yet applied the necessary security patches.
The mitigation strategy for this vulnerability involves upgrading to Apache Ofbiz version 16.11.06 or applying the specific commits referenced in OFBIZ-10770 and OFBIZ-10837. These patches address the core deserialization issues by implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures within the XmlSerializer component. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as network segmentation, web application firewalls, and monitoring for suspicious deserialization activities. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-502 which specifically addresses deserialization of untrusted data, and represents a technique commonly employed in the ATT&CK framework under the "Deserialization of Untrusted Data" tactic, where adversaries exploit serialization mechanisms to execute malicious code remotely.
The root cause of this vulnerability demonstrates the ongoing challenges organizations face when dealing with legacy dependencies and the inherent risks associated with Java's serialization capabilities. The fact that multiple dependencies contribute to the vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date libraries and conducting regular security assessments. Organizations should implement comprehensive dependency management practices and regularly audit their software stacks to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities that may exist in other components of their systems. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and the need for thorough input validation in applications that process serialized data from external sources.