CVE-2023-46604
Published: November 2, 2023
Official Description
Apache ActiveMQ contains a deserialization of untrusted data vulnerability that may allow a remote attacker with network access to a broker to run shell commands by manipulating serialized class types in the OpenWire protocol to cause the broker to instantiate any class on the classpath.
CISA KEV Advisory
Apache ActiveMQ Deserialization of Untrusted Data Vulnerability
Apache ActiveMQ contains a deserialization of untrusted data vulnerability that may allow a remote attacker with network access to a broker to run shell commands by manipulating serialized class types in the OpenWire protocol to cause the broker to instantiate any class on the classpath.
Apply mitigations per vendor instructions or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable.
Risk Analysis
This deserialization of untrusted data vulnerability in Apache ActiveMQ allows a remote attacker with network access to run shell commands. The very high EPSS score indicates a high likelihood of exploitation, and its presence in CISA's KEV catalog confirms active exploitation. This makes it a critical vulnerability that needs immediate attention.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild and is included in CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog. The ability for a remote attacker to run shell commands makes it a severe threat to system integrity.
It is essential to apply the latest security updates and patches for Apache ActiveMQ to address this deserialization vulnerability. Restrict network access to the broker and implement strict input validation to prevent manipulation of serialized class types.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2023-46604 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-2023-46604 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
News & Research Mentioning CVE-2023-46604
Key Takeaways An audio version of this report can be found on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, Audible, & Amazon. This intrusion began in mid-February 2024 after a threat actor exploited a vulnerability (CVE-2023-46604) on an exposed Apache ActiveMQ server. The threat actor was able to perform remote code execution (RCE) by using a Java Spring class and a custom Java Spring […] The post Apache ActiveMQ Exploit Leads to LockBit Ransomware appeared first on The DFIR Report. [xlite_meta score:44 src:The DFIR Report xlite_fp:bfb8828e24890d474e14f12d0dd17ea6256f5c46af6ac869d638eb5f71039776]
All References (2)
Quick Facts
Known Threat Actors
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2023-46604 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