Overview
The Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) system has identified a significant vulnerability in the Apache APISIX’s Java plugin runner, labeled as CVE-2025-27446. This vulnerability is a classic case of incorrect permission assignment for a critical resource. It allows local attackers to exploit the system, potentially leading to unwanted system compromise or data leakage. This issue is of high importance due to its severity and the widespread use of Apache APISIX, increasing the potential damage that can be inflicted if not addressed promptly.
Vulnerability Summary
CVE ID: CVE-2025-27446
Severity: High (CVSS: 7.8)
Attack Vector: Local
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Impact: System compromise and potential data leakage
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Product | Affected Versions
Apache APISIX(java-plugin-runner) | 0.2.0 – 0.5.0
How the Exploit Works
The exploit takes advantage of the incorrectly assigned permissions to the local listening file in the Apache APISIX plugin runner. An attacker with local access to the system can manipulate these permissions to gain elevated privileges. With these elevated privileges, the attacker can perform actions that are typically restricted to higher-level users, potentially leading to system compromise or data leakage.
Conceptual Example Code
Here’s a conceptual command-line example of how the vulnerability might be exploited:
# Attacker gains access to the system
$ ssh user@vulnerable.system.com
# Attacker locates the plugin runner
$ cd /path/to/apisix/plugin/runner
# Attacker escalates privileges using the permission flaw
$ chmod 777 critical_fileNote: This is a simplified and conceptual example. Actual exploitation of this vulnerability might require more advanced techniques or specific conditions.
It’s essential to upgrade your Apache APISIX to version 0.6.0 or higher to rectify this vulnerability. Alternatively, applying vendor patches or using a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can serve as temporary mitigation strategies.