Vulnerability · Published Feb 27, 2024 · Assigned by apache

CVE-2023-51518Apache James server: Privilege escalation via JMX pre-authentication deserialisation

Critical 9.8

In plain English

A critical-severity unsafe deserialization in Apache James server from Apache Software Foundation. There are no confirmed reports of exploitation so far. The chance it is exploited in the next 30 days is estimated at 1.2% (higher than 68% of all known vulnerabilities). Ready-made attack tooling exists: public proof-of-concept code. Fixed versions are available - upgrade the affected package.

Severity (CVSS 3.1)9.8Critical
Exploit odds (30 days)1.2%top 31.9% of all CVEs
Exploited in the wildNo reportsCISA SSVC: none
Attack tooling1Public PoC

Official description

Apache James prior to version 3.7.5 and 3.8.0 exposes a JMX endpoint on localhost subject to pre-authentication deserialisation of untrusted data. Given a deserialisation gadjet, this could be leveraged as part of an exploit chain that could result in privilege escalation. Note that by default JMX endpoint is only bound locally. We recommend users to:  - Upgrade to a non-vulnerable Apache James version  - Run Apache James isolated from other processes (docker - dedicated virtual machine)  - If possible turn off JMX

Affected packages & fixed versions

EcosystemPackageFixed inAdvisory
Mavenorg.apache.james:james-server3.7.5GHSA-px7w-c9gw-7gj3
Mavenorg.apache.james:james-server3.8.1GHSA-px7w-c9gw-7gj3

Affected products (as reported)

VendorProductVersions
Apache Software Foundation Apache James server 0 – through 3.7.43.8 – through 3.8.0

Weakness: CWE-502 · Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

References