CVE-2020-5421 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

In Spring Framework versions 5.2.0 - 5.2.8, 5.1.0 - 5.1.17, 5.0.0 - 5.0.18, 4.3.0 - 4.3.28, and older unsupported versions, a vulnerability exists where protections against RFD attacks from CVE-2015-5211 can be bypassed using a jsessionid path parameter.

Understanding CVE-2020-5421

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in Spring Framework versions that could allow attackers to bypass certain protections against RFD attacks.

What is CVE-2020-5421?

CVE-2020-5421 is a vulnerability in Spring Framework versions that may lead to the bypassing of protections against RFD attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2020-5421

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 8.7, indicating a high severity level with significant impacts on confidentiality and integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-5421

This section provides more detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to bypass protections against RFD attacks by utilizing a jsessionid path parameter.

Affected Systems and Versions

Spring Framework versions 5.2.0 - 5.2.8
Spring Framework versions 5.1.0 - 5.1.17
Spring Framework versions 5.0.0 - 5.0.18
Spring Framework versions 4.3.0 - 4.3.28
Older unsupported versions

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited depending on the browser used through the manipulation of the jsessionid path parameter.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-5421, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Spring Framework to versions 4.3.29, 5.0.19, 5.1.18, or 5.2.9 to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor for any suspicious activities or unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions.
Implement secure coding practices to prevent input validation vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Spring by VMware to address the CVE-2020-5421 vulnerability.