CVE-2023-42404 in Workspace
Summary
by MITRE • 04/28/2025
OneVision Workspace before WS23.1 SR1 (build w31.040) allows arbitrary Java EL execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-42404 affects OneVision Workspace versions prior to WS23.1 SR1, specifically those built with version w31.040 or earlier. This critical security flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary Java Expression Language expressions, representing a severe elevation of privilege vulnerability that can compromise the entire application environment. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the application's processing mechanisms, allowing malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code through carefully crafted Java EL expressions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the improper handling of user-supplied input within the OneVision Workspace application framework. When the system processes certain user inputs, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the content before executing Java Expression Language expressions, creating an environment where attackers can inject malicious expressions that get evaluated by the Java runtime. This flaw operates at the application layer and leverages the inherent capabilities of Java Expression Language to execute arbitrary code, effectively bypassing standard security controls and access restrictions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial and multifaceted. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain complete control over the affected OneVision Workspace system, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. The arbitrary execution capability allows for privilege escalation, enabling attackers to perform actions beyond their initial access level. This vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the system, as it provides a pathway for unauthorized code execution that could be used to install backdoors, exfiltrate data, or disrupt business operations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it accessible to a wide range of threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-42404 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected OneVision Workspace versions to WS23.1 SR1 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of the affected systems. Additional defensive measures include input validation and sanitization at all entry points, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads, and monitoring for suspicious activities related to Java EL expression execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Java Expression Language," highlighting the need for comprehensive application security controls and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation of such critical vulnerabilities.