S4E

Name: Pebble Scanner

Meta Description: This scanner detects the use of Pebble in digital assets. Pebble, a Java templating engine, is checked for potential Server Side Template Injection vulnerabilities. The scanner helps in maintaining secure templating practices within software systems.

Short Info


Level

High

Single Scan

Single Scan

Can be used by

Asset Owner

Estimated Time

10 seconds

Time Interval

24 days 23 hours

Scan only one

URL

Toolbox

Pebble is a Java templating engine commonly used in web development for rendering dynamic content in applications. Developers utilize Pebble to create templates with features like inheritance and autoescaping to ensure clean and maintainable code. It is comparable to the Python Jinja Template Engine and is favored for its simplicity and flexibility. The engine finds usage in both small projects and large enterprise solutions. Its support for internationalization enhances its adoption in global applications. Pebble's autoescaping helps prevent security issues, but vulnerabilities can still exist if not correctly implemented.

The Server Side Template Injection (SSTI) vulnerability occurs when user input is improperly sanitized within a template, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server. This vulnerability lets malicious users gain access and manipulate backend server data or functionalities. Often leading to serious security breaches, SSTI is critical in environments where templates render user-provided data. The detections help in identifying these unsafe implementations early. Through this scanner, users can mitigate security risks associated with template engines. Thus, maintaining security best practices in templating environments is crucial.

Technical details about this SSTI vulnerability involve carefully crafted queries or payloads that enable the execution of code on the system. This scanner targets Pebble's templating mechanism, involving specific injection techniques using Java's reflection capabilities. Attack vectors could involve manipulating query parameters or crafting malicious input that the engine would process dangerously. Fuzzing techniques within the scanner attempt to identify endpoints that process unsanitized templates. Once executed, these payloads reveal potential vulnerabilities by interacting with controlled external services. The ability to detect JSON request and response patterns further aids in assessing template security.

When exploited, SSTI vulnerabilities in Pebble could allow an attacker to gain remote control over the server. Such breaches could lead to data theft, unauthorized access to sensitive information, or even complete server compromise. An attacker might alter or delete data, resulting in significant operational and reputational damage. Furthermore, if combined with other vulnerabilities, it may intensify the extent of exploitation. Preventive measures and regular audits become essential to safeguard against these ramifications. Detection plays a crucial role in ensuring security across templating systems in web applications.

REFERENCES

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