1. Introduction
Apache OFBiz Remote Code Execution (CVE-2021-26295) affects web applications running on remote web servers. This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the target system by exploiting a deserialization flaw. Successful exploitation could lead to complete compromise of the server, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
2. Technical Explanation
- Root cause: The vulnerability stems from insecure deserialization of untrusted data within the Apache OFBiz web application.
- Exploit mechanism: An attacker sends a specially crafted HTTP request containing malicious serialized Java objects to trigger remote code execution.
- Scope: Affected versions are those prior to 17.12.06.
3. Detection and Assessment
To confirm vulnerability, check the OFBiz version running on your server. A thorough assessment involves reviewing application logs for suspicious activity related to deserialization errors or unexpected command execution.
- Quick checks: Check the Apache OFBiz version via the web interface (if accessible) or by examining deployment files.
- Scanning: Nessus vulnerability scan ID 82b088f2 can detect this issue. This is an example only and may require configuration.
- Logs and evidence: Examine application logs for errors related to deserialization or unexpected Java commands being executed.
# Example command placeholder:
# No specific command available without access to the OFBiz server environment. Check version via web UI or deployment files.
4. Solution / Remediation Steps
Apply the vendor-provided patch for Apache OFBiz to address this vulnerability. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a successful remediation.
4.1 Preparation
- Ensure you have sufficient disk space for the patch installation. A roll back plan involves restoring from the backup created in this step.
- A change window may be required, depending on your environment. Approval from a system administrator is recommended.
4.2 Implementation
- Step 1: Download the Apache OFBiz 17.12.06 release package from the official website (https://ofbiz.apache.org/release-notes-17.12.06.html).
- Step 2: Extract the contents of the downloaded package to your OFBiz installation directory, overwriting existing files.
- Step 3: Restart the Apache OFBiz service.
4.3 Config or Code Example
Before
# No specific configuration example available as this is a code-level vulnerability addressed by updating the OFBiz version. The vulnerable code handles deserialization without proper validation.After
# After upgrading to 17.12.06, the application will include updated security measures that prevent insecure deserialization of untrusted data. No specific configuration changes are required beyond the upgrade itself.4.4 Security Practices Relevant to This Vulnerability
Several security practices can help mitigate this type of vulnerability. Least privilege reduces the impact if exploited, and input validation prevents unsafe data from being processed. Patch cadence ensures timely application of security updates.
- Practice 1: Implement least privilege principles for all service accounts used by Apache OFBiz to limit potential damage from a successful exploit.
- Practice 2: Enforce strict input validation on all user-supplied data to prevent malicious payloads from reaching the deserialization process.
4.5 Automation (Optional)
# No automation script provided due to the complexity of OFBiz deployments. Manual upgrade is recommended.5. Verification / Validation
- Post-fix check: Verify the Apache OFBiz version is 17.12.06 or higher via the web interface or deployment files.
- Re-test: Re-run the Nessus scan (ID 82b088f2) to confirm it no longer detects the vulnerability.
- Smoke test: Verify that core application features, such as user login and basic data access, are functioning correctly.
# Post-fix command and expected output:
# Check version via web UI or deployment files - Expected Output: Apache OFBiz 17.12.06 (or higher)
6. Preventive Measures and Monitoring
Update security baselines to include the latest OFBiz versions. Implement checks in CI/CD pipelines to prevent vulnerable versions from being deployed. Establish a regular patch review cycle that fits your risk profile.
- Baselines: Update your security baseline or policy to require Apache OFBiz 17.12.06 or later.
- Asset and patch process: Implement a monthly patch review cycle for all critical applications, including Apache OFBiz.
7. Risks, Side Effects, and Roll Back
- Risk or side effect 2: Service downtime during the upgrade process. Mitigation: Schedule the upgrade during a maintenance window.
8. References and Resources
- Vendor advisory or bulletin: https://ofbiz.apache.org/release-notes-17.12.06.html
- NVD or CVE entry: CVE-2021-26295
- Product or platform documentation relevant to the fix: https://ofbiz.apache.org/release-notes-17.12.06.html