CISA Issues Alert on Actively Exploited Apache HTTP Server Escape Vulnerability

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has issued an urgent alert regarding a newly discovered and actively exploited vulnerability in the widely used Apache HTTP Server.

The flaw, catalogued as CVE-2024-38475, affects the server’s mod_rewrite module and poses significant risks to organizations worldwide.

Details of the Vulnerability

CVE-2024-38475 is classified as an “improper escaping of output vulnerability,” as outlined in Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE-116).

It enables malicious actors to craft specific URL requests that, when processed by the server’s mod_rewrite engine, direct the application to serve files from filesystem locations that would otherwise not be directly accessible via the Internet.

According to CISA, this vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code or access sensitive source code stored on the server.

The improper handling of output by mod_rewrite essentially breaks the expected security boundaries, exposing critical files or enabling server compromise.

The Apache HTTP Server is one of the most commonly used web servers globally, powering millions of websites and web applications in both public and private sectors.

Security researchers have confirmed that this vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild, although, as of this writing, there is no evidence linking it to known ransomware campaigns.

“While it remains unclear whether the vulnerability has been weaponized for ransomware, its readiness for exploitation places countless systems at risk of data leaks and further attacks,” said a CISA spokesperson. “Administrators should consider this a critical threat.”

Recommended Actions

CISA urges all organizations using Apache HTTP Server to immediately review their deployments and take the following actions:

• Apply mitigations as specified by the Apache Software Foundation, including any available security patches or configuration changes.
• Follow BOD 22-01 guidance for cloud-based Apache HTTP services. The Binding Operational Directive mandates swift response to severe vulnerabilities affecting federal agencies but serves as a best-practice guide to all enterprises.
• Discontinue use of vulnerable server versions if mitigations are unavailable.

Organizations are advised to complete these actions by May 22, 2025, to avoid potential exploitation and ensure continued compliance with federal cybersecurity standards.

With the addition of CVE-2024-38475 to CISA’s Catalog of Known Exploited Vulnerabilities, the agency underscores the need for ongoing vigilance.

Administrators should monitor official vendor communications and CISA advisories for further updates.

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