CVE-2023-5379 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2023-5379 involves a vulnerability in Undertow where an AJP request exceeding the max-header-size attribute can cause JBoss EAP to be marked in an error state by mod_cluster in httpd, leading to a Denial of Service (DoS) potential. This flaw was reported to Red Hat and made public on December 12, 2023.

Understanding CVE-2023-5379

This section delves into the core details of CVE-2023-5379, outlining what the vulnerability is about and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2023-5379?

The vulnerability in Undertow arises when an AJP request surpasses the max-header-size attribute, causing JBoss EAP to close the TCP connection without sending an AJP response. This allows a malicious user to potentially launch DoS attacks by sending repeated requests that exceed the specified limit.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5379

With this vulnerability, an attacker could exploit the issue to disrupt services and potentially cause downtime for affected systems running specific Red Hat products.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5379

This section provides a deeper dive into the technical aspects of the CVE, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in Undertow triggers JBoss EAP to close the TCP connection without returning an AJP response when an AJP request exceeds the max-header-size attribute, thus paving the way for a potential DoS scenario.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts various Red Hat products, including Red Hat JBoss Enterprise Application Platform 7, Red Hat build of Quarkus, Red Hat Data Grid 8, Red Hat Decision Manager 7, and others, as specified in the affected list.

Exploitation Mechanism

By sending AJP requests that surpass the max-header-size attribute, a threat actor could exploit this vulnerability to repeatedly trigger the error state in JBoss EAP, potentially leading to service disruptions.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, crucial steps for immediate response, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates are highlighted to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-5379.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is recommended to apply the latest security patches provided by Red Hat to address the vulnerability promptly. Additionally, monitoring network traffic and limiting unnecessary access to AJP interfaces can help mitigate potential risks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust network segmentation, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about emerging vulnerabilities can fortify the overall security posture and prevent future exploitation attempts.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security advisories from Red Hat and apply relevant patches and updates to ensure that systems are protected against known vulnerabilities, including CVE-2023-5379.