CVE-2022-24846 in GeoWebCache
Summary
by MITRE • 04/15/2022
GeoWebCache is a tile caching server implemented in Java. The GeoWebCache disk quota mechanism can perform an unchecked JNDI lookup, which in turn can be used to perform class deserialization and result in arbitrary code execution. While in GeoWebCache the JNDI strings are provided via local configuration file, in GeoServer a user interface is provided to perform the same, that can be accessed remotely, and requires admin-level login to be used. These lookup are unrestricted in scope and can lead to code execution. The lookups are going to be restricted in GeoWebCache 1.21.0, 1.20.2, 1.19.3.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/20/2022
CVE-2022-24846 represents a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting GeoWebCache, a Java-based tile caching server widely used in geospatial applications. This vulnerability stems from an insecure JNDI (Java Naming and Directory Interface) lookup mechanism within the disk quota functionality that fails to validate or restrict external references. The flaw exists in the way GeoWebCache processes configuration parameters that specify disk quota locations, allowing attackers to inject malicious JNDI lookup strings that can trigger remote code execution through class deserialization attacks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited remotely when combined with the GeoServer user interface component, which provides a web-based configuration interface accessible to authenticated administrators. This represents a classic insecure deserialization vulnerability categorized under CWE-502, where untrusted data is deserialized without proper validation, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves leveraging the JNDI lookup mechanism to redirect requests to attacker-controlled external servers, typically through LDAP or RMI protocols. When GeoWebCache processes the disk quota configuration, it performs an unchecked JNDI lookup that can be manipulated to load malicious Java classes from remote servers. This attack vector follows the pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting Java deserialization vulnerabilities. The vulnerability affects multiple versions of GeoWebCache, with patches released in versions 1.21.0, 1.20.2, and 1.19.3, indicating the severity of the issue and the need for immediate remediation. The attack requires administrative privileges to exploit through the GeoServer interface, but the underlying vulnerability exists at the GeoWebCache layer, making it a persistent threat across different deployment scenarios.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-24846 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Once exploited, attackers can gain full control over the affected GeoWebCache server, potentially leading to lateral movement within network environments, persistence mechanisms, and access to sensitive geospatial data. The vulnerability affects organizations using geospatial applications, mapping services, and web mapping platforms that rely on GeoWebCache for tile caching operations. Security teams must consider this vulnerability in the context of broader application security practices and incident response procedures. The patching process requires careful consideration due to the widespread use of GeoWebCache in enterprise environments, and administrators should verify that all affected components are properly updated to prevent exploitation. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual JNDI lookup patterns and outbound connections to suspicious external domains.
The remediation approach for CVE-2022-24846 involves immediate deployment of patched versions of GeoWebCache and GeoServer components, along with comprehensive configuration reviews to eliminate any custom JNDI lookup configurations that might introduce similar vulnerabilities. System administrators should disable unnecessary JNDI functionality and implement strict network controls to prevent unauthorized external connections. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, particularly when dealing with configuration parameters that can influence system behavior. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their geospatial infrastructure and implement monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous JNDI activity patterns. This vulnerability also highlights the need for regular security updates and vulnerability management processes, as the flaw existed across multiple versions of the software without proper safeguards against insecure JNDI lookups. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that patched systems maintain functionality while eliminating the attack vectors that enabled exploitation.