OpenMQ Configuration Parsing File Read (CVE-2026-24457)

Patch now - CVE-2026-24457 is a critical path traversal vulnerability in OpenMQ that lets an unauthenticated remote attacker read arbitrary files on the server, from configs to SSH keys, and chain into full host compromise. Apply the vendor’s official patch without delay.

Overview

A critical vulnerability has been identified in OpenMQ, a widely used message broker. This flaw stems from an unsafe parsing mechanism within the broker’s configuration. In simple terms, the software does not properly validate or restrict certain input paths, allowing a remote attacker to manipulate these paths to access files on the underlying server.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability (CVE-2026-24457) exists in how OpenMQ processes specific configuration parameters. A remote, unauthenticated attacker can send specially crafted requests that trick the broker into reading files from the server’s filesystem instead of its intended configuration data. This improper handling of file paths is the core of the exploitation.

Potential Impact

The impact of this vulnerability is severe, warranting its CRITICAL 9.1 CVSS rating.

• Arbitrary File Read: An attacker can leverage this flaw to read sensitive files from the OpenMQ server. This includes OpenMQ configuration files, application logs, and potentially any other file accessible to the broker process.
• Host System Compromise: By reading critical system files (e.g., /etc/passwd, SSH keys, or database credentials), an attacker can gather information to further compromise the host operating system.
• Risk of Remote Code Execution (RCE): In certain deployment scenarios, the ability to read and potentially write to specific files could be chained with other system conditions to achieve full Remote Code Execution, granting the attacker complete control over the affected server.

Remediation and Mitigation

Immediate action is required to protect affected systems.

Primary Remediation: Apply the official security patch provided by your OpenMQ vendor or distribution immediately. Consult your vendor’s security advisory for the specific fixed versions. This is the only complete solution.

Immediate Mitigations (If Patching is Delayed):

1. Network Segmentation: Restrict network access to the OpenMQ broker ports (default 7676 and 7677 for JMS) using firewall rules. Allow connections only from explicitly trusted, necessary application servers.
2. Principle of Least Privilege: Ensure the operating system account running the OpenMQ broker process has the minimum required filesystem permissions. It should not have read access to sensitive OS directories.
3. Monitor for Anomalies: Review OpenMQ access logs for unusual connection patterns or errors indicating failed file access attempts. Monitor the host system for unexpected reads of sensitive files by the broker process.

All users and administrators of OpenMQ should prioritize applying the official patch to eliminate this critical risk.