RHSA-2014:1400: Moderate: Apache POI security update

Published Oct 13, 2014
·
Updated

Apache POI is a library providing Java API for working with OOXML documentfiles.It was found that Apache POI would resolve entities in OOXML documents.A remote attacker able to supply OOXML documents that are parsed by ApachePOI could use this flaw to read files accessible to the user running theapplication server, and potentially perform more advanced XML ExternalEntity (XXE) attacks. (CVE-2014-3529)It was found that Apache POI would expand an unlimited number of entitiesin OOXML documents. A remote attacker able to supply OOXML documents thatare parsed by Apache POI could use this flaw to trigger a denial of serviceattack via excessive CPU and memory consumption. (CVE-2014-3574)All users of Red Hat JBoss BRMS 6.0.3 as provided from the Red HatCustomer Portal are advised to apply this security update.

Affected Software

2 affected components
Apache POI
Red Hat JBoss BRMS

Remediation

Event History

Oct 13, 2014
Advisory Published
12:00 AM
Data Sourced
12:00 AM
RemedyDescriptionAffected Software

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of RHSA-2014:1400?

The severity of RHSA-2014:1400 is classified as moderate.

2

How do I fix RHSA-2014:1400?

To fix RHSA-2014:1400, apply the patches provided in the security advisory related to this vulnerability.

3

What are the potential impacts of exploiting RHSA-2014:1400?

Exploiting RHSA-2014:1400 could allow a remote attacker to read files accessible to the Apache POI library.

4

Which versions are affected by RHSA-2014:1400?

Affected versions are those of Apache POI that process OOXML documents and do not have the necessary security updates.

5

Is there a workaround for RHSA-2014:1400?

A valid workaround involves validating the OOXML documents before processing them with Apache POI to prevent remote entity resolution.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203