CVE-2023-28462 in Server
Summary
by MITRE • 03/30/2023
A JNDI rebind operation in the default ORB listener in Payara Server 4.1.2.191 (Enterprise), 5.20.0 and newer (Enterprise), and 5.2020.1 and newer (Community), when Java 1.8u181 and earlier is used, allows remote attackers to load malicious code on the server once a JNDI directory scan is performed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-28462 represents a critical security flaw in Payara Server versions 4.1.2.191 (Enterprise), 5.20.0 and newer (Enterprise), and 5.2020.1 and newer (Community) when operating with Java 1.8u181 or earlier versions. This issue specifically targets the default ORB listener within the application server, creating a pathway for remote code execution through JNDI rebind operations that occur during directory scans. The vulnerability stems from the improper handling of JNDI lookup requests that can be manipulated to redirect the server's JNDI operations to malicious remote endpoints, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected systems.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves leveraging the JNDI (Java Naming and Directory Interface) rebind functionality within the ORB (Object Request Broker) listener to intercept and redirect JNDI directory lookups. When the server processes these requests, it fails to properly validate the JNDI endpoints, allowing attackers to specify malicious LDAP or RMI servers that return crafted payloads. This behavior creates a direct code execution vector where remote attackers can load and execute malicious code on the target server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication and can be exploited through standard network traffic, making it highly accessible to attackers. The flaw is classified under CWE-20: Improper Input Validation, which indicates that the system does not adequately validate or sanitize input data received from external sources, specifically JNDI directory requests.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for organizations using affected Payara Server versions. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain full control over the application server, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, and complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the application server, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the server process, which could include database access, file system manipulation, and network reconnaissance. Organizations relying on Payara Server for mission-critical applications face significant risk, as this vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring any prior authentication or access to the system. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential lateral movement within network environments and data exfiltration capabilities. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1105 for Remote File Copy, as it enables attackers to execute commands and potentially transfer malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-28462 primarily focus on immediate version upgrades to patched releases of Payara Server, as well as implementing network-level restrictions and JNDI configuration hardening. Organizations should upgrade to the latest available versions of Payara Server that contain patches for this vulnerability, which typically address the improper JNDI endpoint validation and implement stricter input validation mechanisms. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the ORB listener ports, particularly in environments where external access is not required. The JNDI configuration should be hardened by disabling unnecessary JNDI lookup capabilities or implementing strict endpoint validation for JNDI requests. Additionally, organizations should monitor for suspicious JNDI lookup patterns and implement logging mechanisms to detect potential exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify and alert on suspicious JNDI rebind operations. The vulnerability requires immediate attention due to its remote exploitability and the potential for complete system compromise, making proactive remediation essential for maintaining secure application server environments.