^{CVE-2020-2551:}Critical unauthenticated remote code execution vulnerability in Oracle WebLogic Server via IIOP protocol.

Overview

This vulnerability exists in the WLS Core Components of Oracle WebLogic Server versions 10.3.6.0.0, 12.1.3.0.0, 12.2.1.3.0, and 12.2.1.4.0. The issue is related to the IIOP protocol implementation, which allows an unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code on the affected server. IIOP is a protocol that enables communication between distributed objects in different applications, and it's commonly used in enterprise Java environments. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it:

1. Requires no authentication
2. Can be exploited over the network
3. Has low complexity (easy to exploit)
4. Requires no user interaction
5. Can lead to complete system compromise

When successfully exploited, an attacker can gain full control over the WebLogic Server, potentially accessing sensitive data, modifying system configurations, or using the compromised server as a foothold for further attacks within the network.

Remediation

To address this vulnerability, organizations should take the following actions:

1. Apply the security patches provided in Oracle's January 2020 Critical Patch Update (CPU):

   • Update to the latest patched versions of WebLogic Server for your respective version
   • Follow Oracle's official patching instructions for your specific environment

2. If patching is not immediately possible, implement these mitigations:

   • Disable the IIOP protocol if not required for your applications
   • Block access to the IIOP ports (default: 7001/TCP) at network boundaries
   • Implement network segmentation to restrict access to WebLogic Server instances
   • Deploy web application firewalls (WAFs) configured to detect and block exploitation attempts

3. After patching:

   • Conduct a thorough security review to identify any signs of compromise
   • Restart all WebLogic Server instances to ensure patches are fully applied
   • Test applications to ensure functionality is maintained after patching

4. Long-term security measures:

   • Implement the principle of least privilege for all WebLogic Server deployments
   • Regularly review and update security configurations
   • Monitor for unusual network traffic or system behavior

References

1. Oracle Critical Patch Update Advisory - January 2020: https://www.oracle.com/security-alerts/cpujan2020.html

2. CVSS Vector: CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H (Base Score: 9.8)

3. Affected Oracle WebLogic Server versions:

   • 10.3.6.0.0
   • 12.1.3.0.0
   • 12.2.1.3.0
   • 12.2.1.4.0

4. Component: WLS Core Components (IIOP protocol implementation)