Red Hat has released multiple security advisories and updated packages to address the Apache CXF improper child policies enforcement issue.
Description
Apache CXF versions 2.4.5 through 2.4.7, 2.5.1 through 2.5.3, and version 2.6.0 contain an issue that could result in weaker-than-expected security configurations.
The issue exists because the affected software fails to properly enforce the WS-SecurityPolicy 1.1 child policies on the client system. The client could improperly skip the following policies while being configured by the server:
These policies instruct the client to perform encryption or signing elements as directed by the policy, and a failure to apply the policies could lead to unsafe storage or transmission of sensitive information.
Apache has confirmed the issue and software updates are available.
Patches/Software
Apache has released a security advisory at the following link: CVE-2012-2378. Apache has released software updates at the following link: Apache CXF
Red Hat has released updated software for registered subscribers at the following link: Red Hat Network. Red Hat packages can be updated on Red Hat Enterprise Linux versions 5 and later using the yum tool.
Impact
This issue could reduce the security configuration of the affected application, possibly exposing information to unauthorized users.
Safeguards
Administrators are advised to apply the appropriate updates.
Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to have network access.
Administrators are advised to allow only trusted users to access local systems.
Administrators may consider using IP-based access control lists (ACLs) to allow only trusted systems to access the affected systems.
Alert History
Version 1, June 8, 2012, 11:44 PM: Apache CXF contains an issue that could result in weaker-than-expected security configurations. Updates are not available.
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