The Log4j Bug Might Cause Problems for Years
Table of Contents
- By David Lukic
- Published: Dec 24, 2021
- Last Updated: Mar 18, 2022
The recent emergence of the bug known as Log4j can to lead to exploits for the foreseeable future. Digital security experts insist this unique vulnerability sets the stage for cyber miscreants to execute harmful attacks on websites owned and operated by businesses, governments, and other parties.
Why is Log4j a Problem?
Log4j, also referred to as Log4Shell, is a cyber vulnerability that allows hackers to exploit website weaknesses. A whopping three billion web-connected devices run Java. A considerable percentage of these devices use Log4j. Patching each of these systems will take time and effort. If digital security specialists don’t rise to the occasion and implement patching, Log4j could wreak digital havoc well beyond 2022.
How can Websites Combat Log4j?
Developers need guidance from digital security specialists to proactively address the Log4j bug. A worldwide cybersecurity awareness campaign will also help spur a proactive response. If the Log4j vulnerability proves similar to previous vulnerabilities such as Shellshock and Heartbleed, hackers will exploit the digital weakness for years or even decades. The Log4Shell vulnerability is especially concerning as it is exploitable on more websites than previous vulnerabilities.
A Log4j patch was recently released. However, many businesses and other organizations might not identify the Log4j vulnerability in their environment. If a website owner or operator is unaware of the security flaw, the patch won’t be implemented. Java environments have several dependencies as JAR files. These layers conceal Log4j.
Businesses are encouraged to identify products with the Log4j vulnerability, apply patches, and implement other safeguards. However, vendors might not be aware of the extent of their Log4j use or the specific version in use. Some vendors are unaware that Log4j is included in their product.
Vendors are advised to review the nuances of their code to gauge the extent of exposure. The vulnerability requires vendor patching, yet this is not the extent of the digital defense necessary to thwart Log4j. Vendors must also connect with their customers to encourage them to add the patch.
Are Conventional Vulnerability Tools up to the Task?
Current tools designed to pinpoint digital security flaws might not suffice. An over-reliance on conventional vulnerability management safeguards will scan applications for issues yet might not identify the Log4j framework. If the Log4j framework is installed through a non-default path or if its name has changed, conventional vulnerability identification tools might overlook it.
A better approach is to use new vulnerability management solutions that pinpoint configuration strings in digital files. Such updated tools search through applications to identify all potential vulnerabilities, even if they are renamed.
Will the Federal Government Step in to Help?
The United States Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, commonly referred to as CISA, recently published information pertaining to Log4j vulnerability guidance. CISA also published a GitHub repository highlighted by community sourcing for public access. These sources provide updates about the Log4j vulnerability, patches, and additional advisories. The CISA Log4j web page and repository will be updated as time progresses.
