CVE-2023-35042 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

GeoServer 2, in some configurations, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via java.lang.Runtime.getRuntime().exec in wps:LiteralData within a wps:Execute request, as exploited in the wild in June 2023.

Understanding CVE-2023-35042

GeoServer 2 is susceptible to a critical vulnerability that enables attackers to run malicious code.

What is CVE-2023-35042?

CVE-2023-35042 describes a security flaw in GeoServer 2 that permits remote attackers to execute arbitrary code through specific configurations.

The Impact of CVE-2023-35042

The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized execution of code by malicious actors, potentially resulting in system compromise and data breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-35042

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stems from how GeoServer 2 handles java.lang.Runtime.getRuntime().exec in wps:LiteralData when processing wps:Execute requests.

Affected Systems and Versions

All configurations of GeoServer 2 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious code into wps:LiteralData within a wps:Execute request.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the essential steps to protect your systems from CVE-2023-35042.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable or restrict access to the affected services.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity.
Apply security updates as soon as they are available.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update GeoServer to the latest version to address security vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation to contain potential breaches.
Educate users on best practices for data security.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about patches released by GeoServer and promptly apply them to mitigate the risk of exploitation.