Unmasking Hidden Threats: How BeVigil Secures Apache ActiveMQ from Cyber Risks

Many organizations use Apache ActiveMQ to streamline messaging, but default configurations can leave them vulnerable to cyberattacks. BeVigil’s security analysis uncovered multiple exposed ActiveMQ instances with default admin credentials, putting systems at risk of Remote Code Execution (RCE). This blog highlights the critical vulnerabilities, explains how attackers can exploit them, and provides actionable security measures to mitigate risks. From patching and updating to strengthening access controls and regular audits, discover how to fortify your messaging infrastructure and stay ahead of cyber threats. Read more to protect your system before it's too late!

Niharika Ray

March 17, 2025

As organizations adopt open-source solutions to enhance operational efficiency, securing these tools becomes paramount. Vulnerabilities arising from default configurations can expose systems to significant risks, as highlighted in a recent analysis by BeVigil. This blog dives into the discovery of exposed Apache ActiveMQ instances, offering actionable insights to prevent such threats.

‍

‍

The Discovery

Through its advanced security capabilities, BeVigil identified multiple instances of Apache ActiveMQ configured with default admin credentials. These instances, vulnerable to a critical CVE, posed a significant threat of Remote Code Execution (RCE), which could lead to unauthorized access and potential system compromise.

Key Findings

Default Credentials in Use: Admin panels were accessible using factory-default credentials (“admin:admin”), granting full administrative privileges.
Critical Vulnerability: The exposed instances were running Apache ActiveMQ version 5.14.3, susceptible to certain CVE, with a high CVSS score.
Potential Exploits: The vulnerability leveraged the OpenWire protocol’s deserialization flaws, enabling RCE.

‍

‍

Unmasking Security Flaws: A Detailed Analysis

Apache ActiveMQ, an open-source message broker implementing the Java Message Service (JMS) API, facilitates communication in distributed systems. However, the use of default credentials (admin:admin) grants administrative access, exposing the system to significant security risks

‍

‍

‍

Once access to the console is gained, attackers can explore system configurations, increasing the potential for further exploitation and security breaches.

‍

*Screenshot of SystemProperties exposed*

‍

Apache ActiveMQ 5.14.3 is critically vulnerable to CVE-2023-46604, enabling remote code execution through a deserialization flaw. The exploit is unauthenticated, allowing attackers to bypass admin credentials.

*Screenshot of open port - 61616 with ActiveMQ OpenWire Transport service*

‍

BeVigil’s Security Intervention

BeVigil’s proactive approach included identifying the root causes of these vulnerabilities and recommending robust mitigation strategies.

Patch and Update: Ensure Apache ActiveMQ is upgraded to the latest secure version to eliminate known vulnerabilities.
Enforce Strong Access Controls: Replace default credentials with complex, unique passwords and implement role-based access.
Disable Unused Features: Deactivate unused endpoints and administration panels to minimize the attack surface.
Conduct Regular Audits: Schedule periodic security assessments to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.

Securing open-source tools like Apache ActiveMQ is vital for protecting organizational assets and maintaining trust. Thus implementing the recommended best practices and leveraging advanced security platforms like BeVigil, organizations can mitigate risks and ensure their messaging infrastructures remain robust and secure.

‍