CVE-2021-3160 in Assurex Rentes
Summary
by MITRE • 01/29/2021
Deserialization of untrusted data in the login page of ASSUWEB 359.3 build 1 subcomponent of ACA ASSUREX RENTES product allows a remote attacker to inject unsecure serialized Java object using a specially crafted HTTP request, resulting in an unauthenticated remote code execution on the server.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2021-3160 represents a critical deserialization flaw within the ASSUWEB 359.3 build 1 subcomponent of the ACA ASSUREX RENTES product. This issue specifically targets the login page functionality, creating an attack surface where remote adversaries can exploit insecure object deserialization practices. The vulnerability arises from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize serialized Java objects received through HTTP requests, allowing attackers to craft malicious payloads that bypass authentication mechanisms. The flaw enables unauthenticated remote code execution, fundamentally compromising the security posture of affected systems.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the inherent dangers of Java deserialization vulnerabilities, which are categorized under CWE-502 in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. Attackers can construct specially crafted serialized Java objects that, when processed by the vulnerable login page, trigger arbitrary code execution on the target server. This occurs because the application deserializes user-supplied data without proper input validation or sanitization, creating a pathway for malicious payloads to be executed with the privileges of the affected application. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it operates entirely through HTTP requests, requiring no prior authentication credentials to initiate the exploitation process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Successful exploitation can lead to data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects the ACA ASSUREX RENTES product, which is commonly used in financial and enterprise environments, making the potential damage significant. Organizations relying on this software may face regulatory compliance issues, financial losses, and reputational damage if exploited. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can target systems from anywhere on the internet, without requiring physical access or network proximity.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-3160 should focus on immediate remediation through official patches provided by the vendor. Organizations must ensure that all instances of the ACA ASSUREX RENTES product are updated to versions that address the deserialization vulnerability. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the affected login page and limit the potential attack surface. Additionally, implementing proper input validation, using secure deserialization libraries, and employing application-level firewalls can provide additional layers of protection. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to command and control, execution, and privilege escalation, making comprehensive defensive measures essential for protecting against sophisticated attack campaigns. Organizations should also conduct thorough security assessments to identify any other potentially vulnerable applications within their environment that may be susceptible to similar deserialization attacks.