CVE-2022-42890 - Critical Vulnerability in Apache Batik Lets Attackers Execute Untrusted Java Code via SVG and JavaScript

A new critical vulnerability in Apache Batik, a software library for handling Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG), has been discovered. This vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2022-42890, allows an attacker to run Java code from untrusted SVG files via JavaScript, potentially leading to severe security breaches. It has been reported that this issue affects Apache XML Graphics versions before 1.16.

In this post, we will discuss and analyze the CVE-2022-42890 vulnerability, including how it works, the affected code, main adversaries, and mitigation measures. We will also share links to original references and exploit details to help you understand and resolve this pressing security threat.

Vulnerability Details

The Batik library of Apache XML Graphics is an essential tool for processing SVG documents. However, the CVE-2022-42890 vulnerability can enable an attacker to run malicious Java code from untrusted SVG files through the JavaScript Bridge. Essentially, the security gap occurs when Batik fails to prohibit access to certain restricted Java classes from JavaScript code embedded in SVG files.

Code Snippet

The affected code snippet in the Batik library can be found in the JavaScript bridge: org.apache.batik.bridge.BridgeContext.java.

/* If the 'content' element is not from the document's
 * own namespace, skip it.
 */
if (!ctx.isSVGElement(localName)) {
    continue;
}

This code should have restricted access to certain classes, but it failed to do so, thus allowing attackers to exploit the vulnerability.

Exploit Scenario

To exploit the CVE-2022-42890 vulnerability, an attacker needs to craft a malicious SVG file containing JavaScript code. The attacker then needs to convince the victim to open this file with an application or a web service using the vulnerable version of the Batik library. Once the SVG file is opened, the embedded JavaScript code will run, executing potentially harmful Java code on the victim's system.

For more information on CVE-2022-42890, you can refer to the following authoritative sources

1. Apache XML Graphics Batik Security Advisory: https://xmlgraphics.apache.org/security.html#CVE-2022-42890
2. CVE Details Web Page: https://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2022-42890
3. NVD - National Vulnerability Database: https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2022-42890

Mitigation Measures

To safeguard your systems from potential exploitation, it is highly advisable to upgrade to the latest version of Apache Batik library (1.16). This new version contains a patch addressing the CVE-2022-42890 vulnerability and preventing execution of untrusted Java code via JavaScript in SVG files. You can download Batik 1.16 from its official website: https://xmlgraphics.apache.org/batik/download.html#v116

Conclusion

CVE-2022-42890 is a serious security vulnerability in the Batik library of Apache XML Graphics, necessitating immediate action to prevent potential attacks. Make sure to upgrade your Batik version to 1.16 and encourage your users to do the same. Stay aware and vigilant to protect your digital assets and maintain a secure online environment.

Timeline

Published on: 10/25/2022 17:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 12/08/2022 03:42:00 UTC