CVE-2023-38693CWE-611

RCE in Lucee REST endpoint

Critical · published March 5, 2025

CVSS v3.1
9.8
EPSS
1%
Percentile
56.9
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

🚨 A sneaky XML XXE vulnerability in Lucee allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely – it's like an uninvited guest who brings their own key to the party! 🔥 Think of Lucee's REST endpoint as a busy restaurant, where orders come in and out without much scrutiny. If a waiter (the system) blindly serves whatever request is made, an attacker could sneak in a recipe (malicious command) that could completely change the menu! This vulnerability could allow attackers to walk right in and execute any code they desire, potentially compromising sensitive data or taking total control of the server. The consequences could be absolutely devastating for any web applications relying on Lucee, leaving them wide open for exploitation.

Put simply

Think of Lucee's REST endpoint as a busy restaurant, where orders come in and out without much scrutiny. If a waiter (the system) blindly serves whatever request is made, an attacker could sneak in a recipe (malicious command) that could completely change the menu! The CVE-2023-38693 vulnerability in Lucee Server arises from improper handling of XML inputs, allowing attackers to craft malicious requests that execute arbitrary code via external entities. This weakness presents a critical pathway for remote code execution, affecting versions prior to the patches.

What to do

This vulnerability could allow attackers to walk right in and execute any code they desire, potentially compromising sensitive data or taking total control of the server. The consequences could be absolutely devastating for any web applications relying on Lucee, leaving them wide open for exploitation. To secure your applications, immediately upgrade to Lucee version 5.4.3.2, 5.3.12.1, 5.3.7.59, 5.3.8.236, or 5.3.9.173. Additionally, review your XML handling practices to ensure no other vulnerabilities lurk in the shadows. This is essential for maintaining a strong security posture. You've got this! Follow these steps and keep your Lucee applications safe from prying eyes. 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS v3.1
9.8 · CRITICAL
Vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.00823 · 56.9th percentile
Weakness
CWE-611 · Improper Restriction of XML External Entity Reference
Published
2025-03-05T15:37Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 05 MAR 15:37Z
    RCE in Lucee REST endpoint
    cvelistv5