Java Deserialization Vulnerabilities

Security risks associated with the deserialization of untrusted Java objects.

Understanding:

Java deserialization vulnerabilities occur when untrusted serialized data is deserialized without proper validation, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code or perform remote code execution (RCE).

Common Applications and Use Cases:

Exploiting Insecure Web Applications – Attackers inject malicious serialized objects.
Targeting Enterprise Java Applications – Many legacy applications are vulnerable.
Remote Code Execution (RCE) Attacks – Attackers gain control over the system.

Best Practices and Security Considerations:

Use Secure Deserialization Libraries – Avoid Java’s default ObjectInputStream.
Validate and Sanitize Input Data – Prevent malicious object injection.
Use Allow Lists for Serialized Classes – Restrict acceptable object types.