CVE-2017-5638: Apache Struts Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
Affects Apache StrutsSource CISA KEV
Exploited in the wild · used in ransomware campaigns · KEV due 3 May 2022 · public exploit available (Metasploit, Exploit-DB) · 99% EPSS : apply the vendor's fix or mitigations to Apache Struts now.
Data as of 10/24/2026, 22:15:59 UTC
- Exploitation
Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 11/03/2021
- KEV deadline
- 05/03/2022 US federal agencies must patch by this date; a sensible deadline for everyone else.
- Ransomware
- Used in ransomware campaigns
- EPSS
- 99.9% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 99% of CVEsExploit Prediction Scoring System: the likelihood attackers will use this flaw soon.
- Public exploits
- 1 Metasploit module, 2 Exploit-DB entries, a Nuclei detection templatePublic attack or detection tooling exists; see Public exploits below.
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:HWhat to do
CISA required action
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Public exploits and detection
Metasploit modules
Exploit-DB
Nuclei detection templates
Public tooling indexed from Metasploit Framework, Exploit-DB and ProjectDiscovery nuclei-templates. Its existence raises the odds of exploitation; it does not confirm attacks.
Description
Apache Struts Jakarta Multipart parser allows for malicious file upload using the Content-Type value, leading to remote code execution.
Weaknesses
- CWE-20Improper Input Validation (opens in a new tab)
Class weaknessLikelihood of exploit: HighCWE Top 25 (2025): #18OWASP Top 10 A05:2025: Injection (opens in a new tab)
The product receives input or data, but it does not validate or incorrectly validates that the input has the properties that are required to process the data safely and correctly.
MITRE discourages mapping vulnerabilities to this broad entry; the root cause is usually a more specific weakness.