CVE-2019-17569 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2019-17569, a vulnerability in Apache Tomcat versions 9.0.28 to 9.0.30, 8.5.48 to 8.5.50, and 7.0.98 to 7.0.99 that can lead to HTTP Request Smuggling attacks. Find mitigation steps and preventive measures here.
A regression in Apache Tomcat versions 9.0.28 to 9.0.30, 8.5.48 to 8.5.50, and 7.0.98 to 7.0.99 introduced a vulnerability for HTTP Request Smuggling due to mishandling of invalid Transfer-Encoding headers.
Understanding CVE-2019-17569
This CVE pertains to a specific vulnerability in Apache Tomcat versions 9.0.28 to 9.0.30, 8.5.48 to 8.5.50, and 7.0.98 to 7.0.99 related to HTTP Request Smuggling.
What is CVE-2019-17569?
The regression in the mentioned Apache Tomcat versions led to the mishandling of invalid Transfer-Encoding headers, potentially creating a vulnerability for HTTP Request Smuggling under specific conditions.
The Impact of CVE-2019-17569
The mishandling of Transfer-Encoding headers could allow malicious actors to conduct HTTP Request Smuggling attacks, particularly if Tomcat was behind a reverse proxy with specific incorrect handling.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-17569
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The regression in Apache Tomcat versions 9.0.28 to 9.0.30, 8.5.48 to 8.5.50, and 7.0.98 to 7.0.99 resulted in the mishandling of invalid Transfer-Encoding headers, creating a potential HTTP Request Smuggling vulnerability.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Apache Tomcat 9.0.28 to 9.0.30
- Apache Tomcat 8.5.48 to 8.5.50
- Apache Tomcat 7.0.98 to 7.0.99
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited if Apache Tomcat was placed behind a reverse proxy that incorrectly processed invalid Transfer-Encoding headers in a specific manner.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-17569 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Apache Tomcat to a non-vulnerable version immediately.
- Monitor for any signs of HTTP Request Smuggling attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch Apache Tomcat to prevent known vulnerabilities.
- Implement secure configurations for reverse proxies to handle Transfer-Encoding headers correctly.
- Stay informed about security advisories and best practices.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all security patches and updates for Apache Tomcat are promptly applied to mitigate the risk of HTTP Request Smuggling vulnerabilities.