CVE-2020-2883:Remote Code Execution vulnerability in Oracle WebLogic Server via deserialization attack

splash
Back

Description Preview

CVE-2020-2883 is a critical vulnerability in Oracle WebLogic Server that allows unauthenticated remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via specially crafted IIOP or T3 protocol requests. The vulnerability affects the Core component and stems from insecure deserialization of untrusted data. Successful exploitation grants attackers complete control over the affected WebLogic Server instance, potentially leading to data theft, service disruption, or use of the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks.

Overview

This vulnerability affects 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 exists in the Core component and is exploitable through the IIOP (Internet Inter-ORB Protocol) and T3 protocols. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.0 Base Score of 9.8 (Critical), reflecting its high impact and ease of exploitation.

The root cause is improper validation of serialized data received via IIOP or T3 protocols, allowing attackers to send malicious serialized objects that can trigger code execution when deserialized by the server. No authentication is required to exploit this vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous for internet-facing WebLogic servers.

Exploitation can lead to complete compromise of the WebLogic Server, potentially affecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the application and its data.

Remediation

  1. Apply the security patch from Oracle's April 2020 Critical Patch Update (CPU).
  2. If immediate patching is not possible, implement these mitigations:
    • Block T3 and IIOP protocols at the network boundary if they're not required.
    • Restrict access to the WebLogic Server admin console and T3/IIOP channels to trusted networks only.
    • Configure WebLogic Server to use SSL/TLS for all communications.
    • Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block serialization attacks.
  3. Monitor for exploitation attempts by reviewing server logs for suspicious T3 or IIOP traffic.
  4. Perform a thorough security assessment of affected systems to ensure they haven't already been compromised.
  5. Consider implementing a defense-in-depth approach by running WebLogic Server in a containerized or virtualized environment with limited privileges.

References

  1. Oracle Critical Patch Update Advisory - April 2020: https://www.oracle.com/security-alerts/cpuapr2020.html

  2. Zero Day Initiative Advisory ZDI-20-504: https://www.zerodayinitiative.com/advisories/ZDI-20-504/

  3. Zero Day Initiative Advisory ZDI-20-570: https://www.zerodayinitiative.com/advisories/ZDI-20-570/

  4. Packet Storm Security - WebLogic Server Deserialization Remote Code Execution: http://packetstormsecurity.com/files/157950/WebLogic-Server-Deserialization-Remote-Code-Execution.html

  5. CVSS Vector: CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

Early Warning

Customers using Armis Early Warning were notified about this vulnerability before it appeared in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog, enabling them to assess their exposure and act proactively. Armis offers these examples of CVEs already included in CISA KEV for potential customers. Click here to learn how to receive alerts earlier.

Armis Alert Date
Apr 15, 2020
CISA KEV Date
Jan 7, 2025
1728days early

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Manufacturing: Medium
    Manufacturing
  2. Health Care & Social Assistance: Low
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  3. Public Administration: Low
    Public Administration
  4. Transportation & Warehousing: Low
    Transportation & Warehousing
  5. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  6. Finance and Insurance: Low
    Finance and Insurance
  7. Utilities: Low
    Utilities
  8. Educational Services: Low
    Educational Services
  9. Management of Companies & Enterprises: Low
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  10. Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  11. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  12. Accommodation & Food Services: Low
    Accommodation & Food Services
  13. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  14. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  15. Construction: Low
    Construction
  16. Information: Low
    Information
  17. Mining: Low
    Mining
  18. Real Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  19. Retail Trade: Low
    Retail Trade
  20. Wholesale Trade: Low
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

Let's talk!

background