Major Web Application Firewalls Found Vulnerable to JSON Bypass Attacks
Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) are facing a significant security challenge through JSON bypass attacks. These attacks can circumvent WAF protections by exploiting how WAFs handle JSON-formatted requests to backend databases.
How the JSON Bypass Works:
- Attackers package malicious commands and data in JSON format
- WAFs often fail to properly scrutinize JSON content
- Backend databases process these JSON requests without adequate filtering
- This creates a security gap even in systems not actively using JSON
Major WAF Providers Affected:
- Cloud providers (AWS, Cloudflare)
- On-premises solutions (F5)
- Security vendors (Imperva, Palo Alto)
Immediate Actions to Take:
- Check if your backend database accepts JSON requests
- Disable JSON support if not actively using it
- Review and update WAF configurations
- Contact your WAF vendor about JSON syntax support updates
- Implement regular WAF configuration reviews
Current Status:
- Five major WAF vendors have added JSON syntax support
- Organizations should expect an ongoing security arms race
- Regular WAF maintenance is now crucial, rather than "set and forget"
This vulnerability particularly affects modern web setups with database backends that accept JSON. Even if you're not actively using JSON, your system might still be configured to accept it, creating potential security risks.
Prevention requires active monitoring and configuration management of WAF systems, especially as attackers continue to develop new bypass methods and vendors respond with updated protections.
Note: Contact your WAF provider for specific guidance on implementing JSON syntax protection for your environment.
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