Subject: Mitigating CVE-2017-1000486: Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in PrimeTek PrimeFaces
Tech Stack: PrimeTek PrimeFaces (JavaServer Faces)
Date(s) Issued:
- Published: 01/03/2018
- Last Modified: 09/03/2024
Criticality:
- CVSS v3 Score: 9.8 - CRITICAL
- CVSS v2 Score: 7.5 - HIGH
- Nessus Plugin ID: 168478
Overview
Vulnerability:
PrimeTek PrimeFaces, a JavaServer Faces framework, is vulnerable to a remote code execution (RCE) flaw. This vulnerability arises from inadequate encryption strength and can be exploited by an unauthenticated, remote attacker using specially crafted messages to execute arbitrary code on the affected system.
Affected Versions:
- PrimeFaces 4.0 through 4.0.24
- PrimeFaces 5.0 through 5.2.20
- PrimeFaces 5.3 through 5.3.7
Exploitation:
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely without authentication by sending a specially crafted request that allows arbitrary code execution on the target server.
Impact:
A successful exploit can result in a complete compromise of the affected system, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code, access sensitive data, or disrupt services. This includes potential confidentiality, integrity, and availability risks.
Solution/Mitigation
1. Upgrade
To fully mitigate the vulnerability, it is recommended to upgrade PrimeFaces to one of the following versions that address the issue:
- PrimeFaces 4.0.25 or later
- PrimeFaces 5.2.21 or later
- PrimeFaces 5.3.8 or later
2. Alternative Measures
If an immediate upgrade is not feasible, consider implementing the following temporary measures:
- Restrict Network Access: Limit access to the PrimeFaces web application by only allowing trusted IPs or using firewalls to filter incoming traffic.
- Disable Insecure Features: Disable any features that rely on user input or external data if they are not required.
- Apply Patches: Check with the vendor for any interim patches or security advisories until a full upgrade can be performed.
3. Input Sanitization
Ensure all input fields within PrimeFaces are sanitized and validated rigorously, particularly when handling untrusted data from external sources:
- Use proper input validation methods to filter out unexpected or malicious data.
4. Additional Security Measures
Enhance the security posture of the PrimeFaces deployment by following these additional recommendations:
- Network Segmentation: Segregate the system hosting PrimeFaces from the rest of the network to minimize exposure in case of a breach.
- Principle of Least Privilege: Restrict access to the web application and the underlying server to only those users and services that absolutely need it.
- Enable Logging and Monitoring: Turn on detailed logging of all activities and implement monitoring systems to detect suspicious activities early.
Confirmation & Additional Information
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Verification: After upgrading or applying temporary mitigation measures, test the PrimeFaces instance using known attack vectors to ensure that remote code execution is no longer exploitable. Security testing tools or penetration testing services may be used to confirm the patch's effectiveness.
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Stay Updated: Regularly monitor for any future security updates or patches from PrimeTek to ensure ongoing protection.
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Official Resources:
