CVE-2017-5648 : Security Advisory and Response

CVE-2017-5648, published on April 17, 2017, affects Apache Tomcat versions 9.0.0.M1 to 9.0.0.M17, 8.5.0 to 8.5.11, 8.0.0.RC1 to 8.0.41, and 7.0.0 to 7.0.75. The vulnerability allows untrusted applications to access and modify information from other web applications.

Understanding CVE-2017-5648

This CVE entry highlights a security flaw in Apache Tomcat that could lead to information disclosure.

What is CVE-2017-5648?

CVE-2017-5648 is a vulnerability in Apache Tomcat that arises from improper handling of calls to application listeners, potentially enabling unauthorized access to sensitive information.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5648

The vulnerability in Apache Tomcat versions mentioned could allow untrusted applications to retain references to request or response objects, leading to potential information disclosure from other web applications.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5648

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stems from certain calls to application listeners in affected versions of Apache Tomcat not using the appropriate facade object, enabling unauthorized access to request and response objects.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache Tomcat
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Affected Versions: 9.0.0.M1 to 9.0.0.M17, 8.5.0 to 8.5.11, 8.0.0.RC1 to 8.0.41, 7.0.0 to 7.0.75

Exploitation Mechanism

When running an untrusted application under a SecurityManager, the vulnerability allows the application to preserve a reference to the request or response object, potentially leading to unauthorized access and modification of information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-5648 involves taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply relevant security patches promptly
Monitor and restrict access to sensitive information
Consider limiting the execution of untrusted applications

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Apache Tomcat installations
Implement proper access controls and segregation of web applications
Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all affected versions of Apache Tomcat are updated with the latest security patches to mitigate the risk of exploitation.