CVE-2025-59059 in Ranger
Summary
by MITRE • 03/03/2026
Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in NashornScriptEngineCreator is reported in Apache Ranger versions <= 2.7.0. Users are recommended to upgrade to version 2.8.0, which fixes this issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/04/2026
The CVE-2025-59059 vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the NashornScriptEngineCreator component of Apache Ranger versions up to and including 2.7.0. This vulnerability stems from the improper handling of script execution contexts within the Nashorn JavaScript engine integration, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw specifically manifests when the system processes user-supplied input through the script engine, allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious JavaScript code with the privileges of the running Ranger process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the script engine creator's failure to properly sanitize and validate input parameters before processing them through the Nashorn engine. When Apache Ranger receives requests containing crafted script content, the NashornScriptEngineCreator component fails to implement adequate input validation measures, enabling attackers to inject malicious payloads that bypass normal execution boundaries. This vulnerability falls under CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Scripting" as it leverages JavaScript execution capabilities to achieve code injection. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the scripting engine level, meaning that successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-59059 extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to escalate privileges and potentially gain access to sensitive data within the Ranger environment. Organizations using Apache Ranger for security policy enforcement and data access control are particularly vulnerable since the attacker can leverage this vulnerability to bypass security controls and access protected resources. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require local system access, making the vulnerability especially concerning for cloud deployments and distributed environments where Ranger services are exposed to external networks. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of data protection mechanisms that Ranger is designed to enforce, potentially allowing attackers to modify access policies, read sensitive information, or disable security controls entirely.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate upgrading to Apache Ranger version 2.8.0, which includes patches addressing the input validation deficiencies in the NashornScriptEngineCreator component. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to Ranger services and monitor for suspicious script execution patterns. Additional defensive measures include implementing strict input validation at multiple layers, deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious script payloads, and conducting regular security assessments of script execution environments. Security teams should also consider implementing runtime application self-protection measures and monitoring for unauthorized code execution attempts. The fix in version 2.8.0 specifically addresses the root cause by introducing proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms within the script engine creation process, preventing malicious payloads from being executed through the vulnerable pathway.