CVE-2022-24818 is a vulnerability in the GeoTools open source Java library, which is widely used for geospatial data processing. The issue stems from improper input validation (CWE-20) related to JNDI (Java Naming and Directory Interface) lookups performed by certain GeoTools data sources. Specifically, these data sources can perform unchecked JNDI lookups on user-provided input, which can lead to unsafe class deserialization. This deserialization flaw can be exploited to execute arbitrary code remotely, similar in nature to the infamous Log4Shell vulnerability in Log4J. However, exploitation of CVE-2022-24818 requires an attacker to have admin-level login privileges to trigger the vulnerable JNDI lookups, which limits the attack surface compared to fully unauthenticated remote code execution vulnerabilities. The vulnerability affects GeoTools versions prior to 24.6, versions 25.0 up to but not including 25.6, and versions 26.0 up to but not including 26.4. The GeoTools project has mitigated this issue by restricting JNDI lookups in versions 24.6, 25.6, and 26.4 onwards. For users unable to upgrade, it is critical to ensure that downstream applications do not allow remotely provided JNDI strings to be used, thereby preventing exploitation. No known exploits have been reported in the wild to date. The vulnerability highlights the risk of deserialization attacks in Java applications that process external input without proper validation, especially in libraries that handle complex data sources such as geospatial information.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant in environments where GeoTools is integrated into critical geospatial data processing systems, such as in government mapping agencies, transportation infrastructure, environmental monitoring, and utilities management. Successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution with administrative privileges, potentially compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive geospatial data and related systems. This could disrupt essential services, lead to data breaches, or enable further lateral movement within networks. However, the requirement for admin-level authentication to trigger the vulnerability reduces the likelihood of external attackers exploiting it directly. Insider threats or compromised admin credentials pose the greatest risk. Organizations relying on GeoTools in their software stacks should be aware that unpatched versions expose them to this risk, especially if their applications accept user input that could influence JNDI lookups. The absence of known exploits in the wild suggests the threat is currently low but could increase if attackers develop proof-of-concept code. Given the strategic importance of geospatial data in sectors such as defense, urban planning, and critical infrastructure across Europe, the vulnerability warrants prompt attention to prevent potential exploitation.

1. Upgrade GeoTools to versions 24.6, 25.6, or 26.4 and above, where JNDI lookups are properly restricted. 2. If upgrading is not immediately feasible, audit all downstream applications using GeoTools to ensure they do not accept or process remotely provided JNDI strings. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any user-supplied data that could influence JNDI lookups or deserialization processes. 4. Restrict administrative access to GeoTools-based applications using strong authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication, to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 5. Monitor logs and network traffic for unusual JNDI lookup patterns or deserialization attempts, especially from admin accounts. 6. Employ runtime application self-protection (RASP) or Java security manager policies to limit the impact of potential deserialization exploits. 7. Conduct regular security assessments and code reviews focusing on deserialization and input validation in geospatial data processing components. 8. Educate development and operations teams about the risks of unsafe deserialization and the importance of secure coding practices in handling external inputs.