CVE-2018-11769 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2018-11769, a privilege escalation vulnerability in Apache CouchDB allowing admin users to execute remote code. Find mitigation steps and version details here.
Apache CouchDB before version 2.2.0 allows CouchDB administrative users to configure the server through HTTP(S), leading to a vulnerability in the validation of administrator-supplied configuration settings via the HTTP API. This flaw enables a potential privilege escalation for CouchDB admin users, allowing them to execute arbitrary remote code.
Understanding CVE-2018-11769
This CVE involves a privilege escalation vulnerability in Apache CouchDB that could result in remote code execution.
What is CVE-2018-11769?
The vulnerability in Apache CouchDB versions prior to 2.2.0 allows CouchDB admin users to bypass restrictions on modifying configuration settings via the HTTP API, potentially leading to arbitrary remote code execution.
The Impact of CVE-2018-11769
The vulnerability permits a CouchDB admin user to elevate their privileges to match the operating system's user that CouchDB runs under, enabling the execution of arbitrary remote code.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-11769
Apache CouchDB CVE-2018-11769 involves the following technical aspects:
Vulnerability Description
Insufficient validation of administrator-supplied configuration settings via the HTTP API, allowing for privilege escalation and potential remote code execution.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Apache CouchDB
- Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
- Versions: Apache Tomcat 1.x and =2.1.2
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability allows CouchDB admin users to bypass the blacklist of restricted configuration settings, enabling the execution of arbitrary remote code.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2018-11769, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade Apache CouchDB to version 2.2.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
- Restrict access to CouchDB administrative functions to trusted users only.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and apply security updates for Apache CouchDB.
- Implement network segmentation to limit exposure of CouchDB to potentially malicious actors.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories from Apache Software Foundation and apply patches promptly to secure your CouchDB installation.