Improper Escaping in Apache HTTP Server mod_rewrite (CVE‑2024‑38475) Enables Code Execution
What It Is – Apache HTTP Server’s mod_rewrite module fails to properly escape output, allowing crafted URLs to map to filesystem locations that are not intended to be reachable. An attacker can trigger code execution or disclose source files.
Exploitability – The flaw is publicly disclosed (CVE‑2024‑38475) and has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.8 (High). Exploit code is available in the wild, and no patch had been released at the time of disclosure.
Affected Products – Apache HTTP Server 2.4.x (all supported releases that include mod_rewrite).
Why It Matters for Trust & Control Assurance
- Demonstrates the need for continuous configuration‑control monitoring to detect unpatched vulnerable components before they are exploited.
- Provides evidence that an organization’s software‑supply‑chain due diligence is up‑to‑date, a key element of a defensible audit trail.
- Highlights the importance of mapping this vulnerability to a control objective (secure configuration management) that satisfies multiple frameworks (e.g., NIST CSF, ISO 27001) in a single assurance effort.
Recommended Actions
- Identify all Apache HTTP Server instances in your environment and verify the version.
- Apply the vendor‑released patch or mitigate by disabling
mod_rewriteif not required. - Update your configuration‑control baselines and capture evidence of remediation in your Trust Center.
- Integrate this control gap into your continuous monitoring program to ensure future patches are applied promptly.
Source: CISA KEV – CVE‑2024‑38475