CVE-2016-5007
Authorization Bypass vulnerability in spring-core (Maven)
What is CVE-2016-5007 About?
This authorization bypass vulnerability affects Spring Security and Spring Framework versions, stemming from discrepancies in URL pattern matching. It allows attackers to access protected resources by crafting specific URLs that bypass security checks. Exploiting this requires a detailed understanding of both Spring Security and Spring Framework's URL pattern matching logic.
Affected Software
- org.springframework:spring-core
- <4.3.1
- org.springframework.security:spring-security-core
- <4.1.1
Technical Details
The vulnerability arises from a disparity in URL pattern matching mechanisms between Spring Security (versions 3.2.x, 4.0.x, 4.1.0) and Spring Framework (versions 3.2.x, 4.0.x, 4.1.x, 4.2.x). Spring Security relies on URL patterns for authorization, while Spring Framework uses them for mapping requests to controllers. The core issue is that these two components may interpret certain URL patterns differently, for instance, regarding space trimming in path segments or other pattern matching features. An attacker can craft a URL that, when processed by Spring Security, is not recognized as a protected resource, thereby bypassing the security checks. However, when the same crafted URL reaches the Spring MVC controller, the Spring Framework's more lenient or different pattern matching logic successfully maps it to a controller that should have been protected. This inconsistency allows unauthorized access to sensitive application functionality or data. The problem is exacerbated by the customizability of pattern matching in both components, which can introduce further discrepancies.
What is the Impact of CVE-2016-5007?
Successful exploitation may allow attackers to bypass security restrictions, gain unauthorized access to protected resources or functionalities, and potentially compromise the integrity or confidentiality of data.
What is the Exploitability of CVE-2016-5007?
Exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to precisely craft a URL that takes advantage of the differing pattern matching rules between Spring Security and the Spring Framework. This is a complex task requiring a deep understanding of both frameworks' internals, including how they handle URL paths, special characters, and their respective pattern matching configurations. No specific authentication or privilege is necessarily required before attempting the bypass, as it aims to circumvent existing access controls, making it a remote attack. The presence of custom URL pattern matching rules within an application significantly increases the likelihood and complexity of discovering and exploiting such discrepancies. Thorough testing of all URL patterns becomes critical.
What are the Known Public Exploits?
| PoC Author | Link | Commentary |
|---|---|---|
| No known exploits | ||
What are the Available Fixes for CVE-2016-5007?
Available Upgrade Options
- org.springframework:spring-core
- <4.3.1 → Upgrade to 4.3.1
- org.springframework.security:spring-security-core
- <4.1.1 → Upgrade to 4.1.1
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Book a demoAdditional Resources
- https://github.com/spring-projects/spring-security/commit/e4c13e3c0ee7f06f59d3b43ca6734215ad7d8974
- https://pivotal.io/security/cve-2016-5007
- https://www.oracle.com/technetwork/security-advisory/cpujul2019-5072835.html
- http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/91687
- https://github.com/spring-projects/spring-security/issues/3964
- https://pivotal.io/security/cve-2016-5007
- http://www.oracle.com/technetwork/security-advisory/cpuapr2018-3678067.html
- https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2016-5007
- https://github.com/spring-projects/spring-framework/commit/a30ab30e4e9ae021fdda04e9abfc228476b846b5
- https://osv.dev/vulnerability/GHSA-8crv-49fr-2h6j
What are Similar Vulnerabilities to CVE-2016-5007?
Similar Vulnerabilities: CVE-2023-20860 , CVE-2022-22971 , CVE-2018-1258 , CVE-2014-0054 , CVE-2016-9878
