CVE-2023-34396 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This article provides detailed information on CVE-2023-34396, a vulnerability found in Apache Struts that allows for the Allocation of Resources Without Limits or Throttling. It affects versions up to 2.5.30 and 6.1.2. Find out about the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies for this CVE.

Understanding CVE-2023-34396

CVE-2023-34396 is a vulnerability in Apache Struts that enables attackers to exploit a resource allocation issue, impacting system performance and availability.

What is CVE-2023-34396?

CVE-2023-34396, known as the Allocation of Resources Without Limits or Throttling vulnerability, affects Apache Struts versions up to 2.5.30 and 6.1.2. Attackers can exploit this flaw to exhaust system resources, leading to denial of service (DoS) conditions.

The Impact of CVE-2023-34396

This vulnerability poses a moderate threat, with a CVSS base score of 4.3 and a medium severity rating. It allows attackers to impact the availability of affected systems by causing resource exhaustion without appropriate limits or throttling.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-34396

CVE-2023-34396, discovered by Matthew McClain, is identified by the CWE-770 code. The attack complexity is low, requiring no user interaction and low privileges. The CVSS base score of 4.3 signifies a medium severity vulnerability with low attack complexity and network accessibility.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Apache Struts permits attackers to allocate resources without limits or throttling, potentially leading to DoS attacks. It affects versions up to 2.5.30 and 6.1.2.

Affected Systems and Versions

Apache Struts versions through 2.5.30 and 6.1.2 are affected by this vulnerability, allowing attackers to exploit the resource allocation issue without proper limits.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the CVE-2023-34396 vulnerability by leveraging the resource allocation flaw in Apache Struts to exhaust system resources, causing denial of service conditions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-34396, users and administrators are advised to take immediate steps and implement long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Apache Struts to versions 2.5.31 or 6.1.2.1 or higher to address the vulnerability and prevent exploitation. Organizations should prioritize patching to limit exposure to potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust security measures such as network segmentation, access controls, and regular security assessments to enhance overall cybersecurity posture and prevent future vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor for security updates from Apache Software Foundation and promptly apply patches to secure systems against known vulnerabilities.