Remote Code Execution in Apache Struts Expression Language Evaluation
Apache Struts versions 2.5.0 through 2.5.30 contain an expression language evaluation vulnerability in the tag attributes parser that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via crafted OGNL expressions in tag attributes.
This section explains the vulnerability in everyday language, so anyone can understand the risk and impact.
This security flaw affects Apache Struts, which is software used to build web applications. The vulnerability allows attackers to trick the application into running malicious code by sending specially crafted web requests. This is particularly dangerous because an attacker doesn't need any special access or passwords - they can attack the application just by sending requests over the internet.
If successfully exploited, attackers could potentially take complete control of the affected web server, steal sensitive data, or use the server to attack other systems. This is especially concerning for businesses and organizations that use Apache Struts in their web applications.
Affected Products
Remediation
1. Upgrade Apache Struts to version 2.5.31 or later
2. If immediate upgrade is not possible, implement WAF rules to filter malicious OGNL expressions
3. Review and restrict access to affected endpoints
4. Monitor for exploitation attempts in application logs