CVE-2017-12611 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Apache Struts versions 2.0.0 to 2.3.33 and 2.5 to 2.5.10.1 are vulnerable to remote code execution (RCE) attacks if unintentional expressions are used in a Freemarker tag instead of string literals.

Understanding CVE-2017-12611

Apache Struts versions 2.0.0 to 2.3.33 and 2.5 to 2.5.10.1 are susceptible to remote code execution due to improper handling of expressions in Freemarker tags.

What is CVE-2017-12611?

CVE-2017-12611 is a vulnerability in Apache Struts that allows attackers to execute remote code by exploiting unintentional expressions in Freemarker tags.

The Impact of CVE-2017-12611

Attackers can remotely execute code on systems running the affected versions of Apache Struts.
This vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-12611

Apache Struts versions 2.0.0 to 2.3.33 and 2.5 to 2.5.10.1 are affected by a remote code execution vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from using unintentional expressions in Freemarker tags instead of string literals.

Affected Systems and Versions

Apache Struts versions 2.0.0 to 2.3.33 and 2.5 to 2.5.10.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious code through Freemarker tags, leading to remote code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems from CVE-2017-12611, follow these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Apache Struts to a non-vulnerable version.
Implement input validation to prevent malicious code injection.
Monitor and restrict network traffic to detect and block exploit attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and remediate weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Apache Software Foundation to fix the vulnerability.