CVE-2019-16785 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2019-16785, a vulnerability in Waitress versions up to 1.3.1 causing HTTP request smuggling due to LF vs CRLF handling discrepancies. Find mitigation steps and updates here.
Waitress through version 1.3.1 implemented a feature from RFC7230 that caused discrepancies in interpreting HTTP messages, potentially leading to HTTP request smuggling.
Understanding CVE-2019-16785
What is CVE-2019-16785?
CVE-2019-16785 refers to the handling of line terminators in Waitress versions up to 1.3.1, leading to potential HTTP request smuggling due to differences in LF and CRLF interpretation.
The Impact of CVE-2019-16785
The vulnerability could allow malicious actors to manipulate HTTP messages, potentially leading to request smuggling attacks.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-16785
Vulnerability Description
- Waitress version 1.3.1 incorporated a feature from RFC7230, causing discrepancies in LF and CRLF handling in HTTP messages.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Waitress
- Vendor: Pylons
- Versions affected: <= 1.3.1
Exploitation Mechanism
- Front-end servers may interpret LF and CRLF differently, leading to potential HTTP request smuggling.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade to Waitress version 1.4.0 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software to the latest versions to address security issues promptly.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and apply patches promptly to protect against known vulnerabilities.