CVE-2024-21683: Confluence Data Center RCE Vulnerability

CVE-2024-21683 Overview

This High severity RCE (Remote Code Execution) vulnerability was introduced in version 5.2 of Confluence Data Center and Server. With a CVSS Score of 8.8, it allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code, greatly impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with no need for user interaction.

Critical Impact

An authenticated attacker can execute arbitrary code, compromising system integrity and availability.

Affected Products

• Atlassian Confluence Data Center
• Atlassian Confluence Server
• Atlassian Fisheye

Discovery Timeline

• 2024-05-21 - CVE CVE-2024-21683 published to NVD
• 2025-05-12 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2024-21683

Vulnerability Analysis

This RCE vulnerability is exploitative over the network with low attack complexity. The vulnerability lies within the process that handles remote input, allowing improper execution of code.

Root Cause

The issue stems from insufficient input validation, enabling injection of executable code during input processing.

Attack Vector

The vulnerability can be exploited remotely over a network connection, targeting an instance of Confluence Data Center or Server.

# Example exploitation code (sanitized)
def exploit(server_url, payload):
    headers = {'Content-Type': 'application/json'}
    response = requests.post(f"{server_url}/vulnerable/endpoint", json=payload, headers=headers)
    return response.status_code

Detection Methods for CVE-2024-21683

Indicators of Compromise

• Unusual processes running on Confluence servers
• Unexpected outbound network traffic from Confluence servers
• Modifications in critical configuration files

Detection Strategies

Deploy network monitoring to detect exploit signatures. Scrutinize server logs for entries associated with arbitrary command execution and unauthorized access.

Monitoring Recommendations

Utilize SentinelOne’s behavioral analysis to monitor and alert any deviations from normal operations. Ensure logging is in place for all API endpoints within Confluence.

How to Mitigate CVE-2024-21683

Immediate Actions Required

• Ensure all Confluence installations are updated to the latest patched versions
• Restrict unnecessary network access to Confluence servers
• Conduct a full audit of user permissions

Patch Information

Refer to Atlassian’s Vendor Advisory for detailed patching instructions and update to the latest supported version.

Workarounds

Isolate affected systems from external access if patches cannot be applied immediately. Increase monitoring on affected systems to detect signs of exploitation.

# Configuration example
echo 'Disable vulnerable service' >> /etc/services.conf
echo "Installation updated" | logger