CVE-2017-7675 : What You Need to Know

CVE-2017-7675, published on August 10, 2017, pertains to a security vulnerability in Apache Tomcat versions 9.0.0.M1 to 9.0.0.M21 and 8.5.0 to 8.5.15 that allowed bypassing of security checks, potentially leading to information disclosure.

Understanding CVE-2017-7675

This CVE entry highlights a specific security issue in Apache Tomcat versions 9.0.0.M1 to 9.0.0.M21 and 8.5.0 to 8.5.15 related to directory traversal attacks when implementing HTTP/2.

What is CVE-2017-7675?

The vulnerability in Apache Tomcat versions 9.0.0.M1 to 9.0.0.M21 and 8.5.0 to 8.5.15 enabled attackers to bypass security constraints by using a carefully crafted URL.

The Impact of CVE-2017-7675

The security flaw allowed malicious actors to circumvent security measures, potentially leading to information disclosure.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-7675

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The HTTP/2 implementation in Apache Tomcat versions 9.0.0.M1 to 9.0.0.M21 and 8.5.0 to 8.5.15 bypassed security checks, enabling directory traversal attacks and the evasion of security constraints using manipulated URLs.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache Tomcat
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Affected Versions: 9.0.0.M1 to 9.0.0.M21, 8.5.0 to 8.5.15

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploited the vulnerability by crafting URLs to bypass security checks, potentially leading to unauthorized access and information disclosure.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2017-7675, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Apache Tomcat to a non-vulnerable version.
Implement network security measures to detect and block malicious requests.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch Apache Tomcat and other software components.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
Educate users and administrators about secure coding practices and the importance of timely updates.

Patching and Updates

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