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A serious security vulnerability has been identified in Sitecore CMS versions 7.0 to 7.2 and Sitecore XP versions 7.5 to 8.2. This flaw, found in the Sitecore.Security.AntiCSRF module, allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability is classified as a Deserialization of Untrusted Data issue, making it a critical threat to organizations using these versions of Sitecore.
the Vulnerability
– Affected Software:
– Sitecore CMS versions 7.0 to 7.2
– Sitecore XP versions 7.5 to 8.2
– Vulnerable Component:
– Sitecore.Security.AntiCSRF module
– Attack Method:
- An attacker can exploit this flaw by sending a specially crafted serialized .NET object via the HTTP POST parameter
__CSRFTOKEN. - Sitecore’s anti-CSRF mechanism fails to properly validate and deserialize this data, leading to Remote Code Execution (RCE).
– Impact:
- Unauthenticated attackers can execute arbitrary code on the target system.
- This can lead to full system compromise, data theft, or further attacks within the affected network.
– References:
– [Sitecore Official Download Page](https://dev.sitecore.net/Downloads.aspx)
– [Synacktiv Blog on Sitecore Vulnerability](https://www.synacktiv.com/blog.html)
– [Technical Advisory from Synacktiv](https://www.synacktiv.com/ressources/advisories/Sitecore_CSRF_deserialize_RCE.pdf)
What Undercode Says:
1. Why This Vulnerability is Dangerous
Deserialization vulnerabilities are among the most dangerous security flaws because they allow attackers to manipulate object structures and execute arbitrary code. Since this flaw does not require authentication, any external attacker can exploit it without needing prior access.
2. How Attackers Can Use This Exploit
- Initial Attack: The attacker sends a malicious .NET object in the
__CSRFTOKENfield of an HTTP request. - Execution: The vulnerable Sitecore instance deserializes this object, allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary commands.
- Post-Exploitation: Attackers can install backdoors, exfiltrate data, or pivot into other systems within the network.
3. Potential Impact on Businesses
Organizations using affected Sitecore versions are at high risk. A successful exploit can lead to:
– Website Defacement – Attackers modify website content.
- Data Breach – Sensitive customer and business data can be stolen.
- Ransomware Deployment – Attackers can encrypt systems and demand ransom.
- Further Compromise – Attackers can move laterally within the network.
4. Mitigation Strategies
- Upgrade Sitecore: Immediately upgrade to a patched version beyond 8.2.
- Apply Security Patches: Check for and apply official patches from Sitecore.
- Monitor Traffic: Set up intrusion detection systems (IDS) to monitor for malicious HTTP POST requests containing
__CSRFTOKEN. - Restrict Serialization: Disable or restrict .NET object deserialization unless absolutely necessary.
- Web Application Firewall (WAF): Deploy a WAF to filter malicious inputs targeting Sitecore.
5. How Widespread is This Issue?
Sitecore is widely used by enterprises, government agencies, and large organizations. This means a successful exploit could have widespread consequences across various industries.
6. Future Security Implications
- Rising Deserialization Attacks: Similar vulnerabilities exist in Java, PHP, and Python applications.
- Automated Exploits: Cybercriminals are developing automated tools to scan and exploit deserialization flaws.
- Zero-Day Threats: Even after patching, new zero-day vulnerabilities in Sitecore or similar platforms may emerge.
Fact Checker Results
- Verified Exploitability: The vulnerability has been confirmed by cybersecurity researchers.
- CVE Program Endorsement: The CVE Program has officially classified and documented this vulnerability.
- Patch Status: Sitecore has not publicly announced a patch, but upgrading to newer versions is recommended.
References:
Reported By: https://www.cve.org/CVERecord?id=CVE-2019-9874
Extra Source Hub:
https://www.digitaltrends.com
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