What is CVE-2022-1471 vulnerability?
CVE-2022-1471 is a critical remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability found in the SnakeYAML library, a popular YAML parsing tool used in multiple software products. This vulnerability enables malicious actors to execute arbitrary code by delivering specially crafted YAML content to affected systems. With a CVSS score of 9.8, CVE-2022-1471 poses a severe threat to confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
When was It discovered?
CVE-2022-1471 was publicly disclosed on April 4, 2022. The vulnerability was identified by security researchers investigating unsafe deserialization practices within SnakeYAML's parsing process. The vendor acted promptly, releasing patches shortly after disclosure to mitigate the issue.
Affected products & versions
Product | Versions Affected | Fixed Versions/Patch Links |
SnakeYAML Library | ≤ 1.30 | 1.31 Patch |
IBM Sterling B2B Integrator | Multiple versions | |
Applications using SnakeYAML | Custom implementations | Vendor-specific advisories |
CVE-2022-1471 technical description
CVE-2022-1471 arises from SnakeYAML's unsafe deserialization mechanism, where improperly sanitized YAML inputs could allow attackers to inject malicious payloads. By exploiting this flaw, adversaries can execute arbitrary code in the context of the targeted application, compromising system security. The root cause involves inadequate checks of serialized objects during YAML parsing. For example, an attacker might leverage a maliciously crafted YAML file with specific deserialization gadgets to trigger remote execution.
Tactics, Techniques & Procedures (TTPs)
Attackers exploiting CVE-2022-1471 frequently utilize phishing campaigns or compromised web applications to deliver malicious YAML files. These files are parsed by vulnerable implementations of SnakeYAML, resulting in code execution. Exploiting this vulnerability rests on user interaction or automation-triggered parsing.
Indicators of compromise
Key Indicators of Compromise (IOCs) associated with CVE-2022-1471 include the observation of unusual YAML file uploads, sudden unauthorized command executions, and irregular outbound network traffic. Watch for the use of specific deserialization gadgets or anomalies in logs indicating unexpected data parsing operations.
Known proof-of-concepts & exploits
Proof-of-concept (PoC) exploits for CVE-2022-1471 are publicly available and have been integrated into tools like Metasploit. Active exploitation campaigns leveraging this vulnerability have targeted enterprise systems, particularly those using outdated versions of the SnakeYAML library.
How to detect CVE-2022-1471 vulnerability?
Organizations can detect CVE-2022-1471 by monitoring YAML parsing libraries for outdated versions through software inventory and dependency scanning tools. Host-based detection via anomaly detection in YAML file parsing and log entries indicating unexpected file handling can help identify potential exploitation attempts. SIEM solutions can be configured to spot unusual commands triggered externally.
Impact & risk of CVE-2022-1471 vulnerability
The CVE-2022-1471 vulnerability can lead to full system compromise, rendering critical business data and processes unavailable. It jeopardizes data integrity, allowing attackers to modify or delete critical information. This vulnerability primarily threatens organizations relying on automation-heavy YAML configurations across build systems and APIs.
Mitigation & remediation strategies
To mitigate CVE-2022-1471, update the SnakeYAML library to version 1.31 or newer. Where patching is not immediately possible, consider disabling YAML parsing or isolating vulnerable systems for minimal exposure. Apply strict input validation processes to YAML-handling components, and review application configurations to implement necessary safeguards.
CVE-2022-1471 Vulnerability FAQs
CVE-2022-1471 is a remote code execution vulnerability in the SnakeYAML library that occurs due to unsafe deserialization processes. It allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by delivering maliciously crafted YAML input.
CVE-2022-1471 exploits YAML inputs parsed by SnakeYAML; attackers can inject code into crafted YAML files passed to vulnerable systems, triggering execution during the deserialization process.
Organizations should patch SnakeYAML to the latest version, enforce strict input validation, and scan systems for vulnerabilities. Regularly monitor logs and deploy endpoint detection tools for early indications.
While patches are available, systems using older SnakeYAML versions remain vulnerable. Regular updates, security monitoring, and source code reviews are essential to safeguarding against this threat.
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