CVE-2018-11039 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

The Spring Framework versions 5.0.x before 5.0.7 and 4.3.x before 4.3.18, along with older unsupported versions, are vulnerable to a Cross Site Tracing (XST) attack due to the HiddenHttpMethodFilter functionality.

Understanding CVE-2018-11039

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in the Spring Framework that allows malicious users to exploit the HiddenHttpMethodFilter to carry out a Cross Site Tracing attack.

What is CVE-2018-11039?

The Spring Framework versions 5.0.x before 5.0.7 and 4.3.x before 4.3.18, as well as unsupported versions, have a flaw in the HiddenHttpMethodFilter functionality, enabling attackers to escalate XSS vulnerabilities to XST attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11039

Attackers can manipulate the HTTP request method, including TRACE, leading to potential security breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11039

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The HiddenHttpMethodFilter in Spring MVC allows unauthorized modification of HTTP request methods, facilitating XST attacks when combined with existing XSS vulnerabilities.

Affected Systems and Versions

Spring Framework versions 5.0.x before 5.0.7
Spring Framework versions 4.3.x before 4.3.18

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the HiddenHttpMethodFilter to change HTTP request methods, potentially leading to XST attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2018-11039 with these strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Spring Framework to versions 5.0.7 or 4.3.18 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Regularly monitor and patch security vulnerabilities in your applications.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Spring Framework.