CVE-2023-42503 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2023-42503, a denial of service vulnerability in Apache Commons Compress due to improper input validation, its impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps.
A denial of service vulnerability exists in Apache Commons Compress due to improper input validation and uncontrolled resource consumption in TAR parsing, affecting versions prior to 1.24.0.
Understanding CVE-2023-42503
Apache Commons Compress is impacted by a vulnerability that allows a third party to exploit CPU consumption via a malformed TAR file, potentially causing a denial of service.
What is CVE-2023-42503?
The vulnerability arises from a lack of input validation in the parsing of file modification times headers in Apache Commons Compress versions 1.22 to 1.24.0. This enables attackers to create TAR files that trigger excessive CPU usage upon parsing.
The Impact of CVE-2023-42503
By manipulating file modification time headers, attackers can craft malicious TAR files that lead to a denial of service condition by exploiting CPU resources. This vulnerability poses a risk to systems using affected versions of Apache Commons Compress.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-42503
The vulnerability is characterized by improper input validation and uncontrolled resource consumption during TAR parsing in Apache Commons Compress.
Vulnerability Description
In Apache Commons Compress versions 1.22 to 1.24.0, a lack of input validation on file modification time headers can be exploited to cause CPU exhaustion, resulting in denial of service.
Affected Systems and Versions
Versions prior to 1.24.0 of Apache Commons Compress are impacted by this vulnerability. Applications utilizing specific classes for TAR file parsing are at risk.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can manipulate file time headers in TAR files to trigger CPU resource exhaustion during parsing, leading to a denial of service situation.
Mitigation and Prevention
Users are strongly advised to take immediate steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2023-42503.
Immediate Steps to Take
Upgrade to Apache Commons Compress version 1.24.0 or later to address and remediate the vulnerability. Ensure that affected systems are promptly patched to prevent exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement rigorous input validation measures in software development practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities. Regularly update dependencies and libraries to stay protected against emerging threats.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security advisories and updates provided by Apache Software Foundation to deploy patches promptly and maintain a secure software environment.