CVE-2017-9791
Published: February 10, 2022
Official Description
The Struts 1 plugin in Apache Struts might allow remote code execution via a malicious field value passed in a raw message to the ActionMessage.
CISA KEV Advisory
Apache Struts 1 Improper Input Validation Vulnerability
The Struts 1 plugin in Apache Struts might allow remote code execution via a malicious field value passed in a raw message to the ActionMessage.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
The Struts 1 plugin in Apache Struts is vulnerable to remote code execution through a malicious field value. With an EPSS score of 0.94239, there is a high likelihood of this vulnerability being exploited. This vulnerability is confirmed to be actively exploited, as indicated by its presence in the CISA KEV catalog.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild. Attackers can achieve remote code execution by passing a malicious field value in a raw message to ActionMessage.
Organizations should upgrade Apache Struts to a version that addresses this vulnerability. Review and sanitize all input to Struts applications.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2017-9791 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2017-9791 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2017-9791 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1