ShinyHunters' Sneaky WAF Bypass Trick Hits Oracle PeopleSoft Again

Michael Miller · 2026-09-26

The ShinyHunters extortion gang has found a clever way around web application firewalls (WAFs) that were supposed to protect Oracle PeopleSoft servers. By using a simple URL-encoding trick, they're bypassing the very rules meant to block attacks exploiting CVE-2026-35273. This means vulnerable systems are once again at risk of widespread exploitation. If you're running PeopleSoft, this isn't just another headline—it's a wake-up call. Let's break down what's happening, why it matters, and what you can do to stay safe. ### What Exactly Is the WAF Bypass Trick? WAFs are like security guards for your web applications. They inspect incoming traffic and block anything that looks malicious. But ShinyHunters figured out that by encoding parts of their attack URLs, they can slip past those guards unnoticed. It's like writing a threatening letter in a secret code that the guard can't read. Once inside, they exploit CVE-2026-35273, a flaw that lets them execute code remotely on unpatched PeopleSoft servers. ### Why This Matters for Your Business Oracle PeopleSoft is used by thousands of organizations for HR, finance, and supply chain management. If attackers get in, they can steal sensitive data, deploy ransomware, or hold your systems hostage. ShinyHunters is known for extortion—they don't just break in; they demand payment to keep quiet. And with this bypass, even companies that thought their WAF had them covered are now vulnerable. > "Security is a moving target. What worked yesterday might not work tomorrow—especially when attackers get creative." ### How to Protect Your PeopleSoft Environment You can't rely on a single layer of defense. Here's what you should do right now: - **Patch immediately**: Apply Oracle's latest security updates for PeopleSoft. If you haven't patched CVE-2026-35273 yet, do it today. - **Update your WAF rules**: Work with your WAF vendor to ensure they can detect URL-encoded variations of known attack patterns. - **Monitor logs closely**: Look for unusual URL encoding or repeated attempts to access vulnerable endpoints. - **Segment your network**: Limit lateral movement by isolating PeopleSoft servers from critical internal systems. - **Consider antidetect browsers for testing**: If you're penetration testing or researching attacker techniques, tools like antidetect browsers can help you simulate different environments safely. But remember, they're not a silver bullet—they're just one piece of the puzzle. ### The Bigger Picture ShinyHunters isn't going away. They've been linked to major breaches before, and they're constantly refining their tactics. The URL-encoding trick is just the latest example of how attackers adapt to defenses. For security teams, it's a reminder that WAFs alone aren't enough. You need a layered approach: patching, monitoring, segmentation, and continuous testing. And if you're using antidetect browsers for legitimate purposes like ad verification or privacy, make sure you're not inadvertently exposing yourself to similar bypass techniques. Always keep your tools updated and follow best practices. ### Final Thoughts The ShinyHunters attack on Oracle PeopleSoft is a stark reminder that cybersecurity is a cat-and-mouse game. The bad guys will always find new ways to sneak in. Your best defense is staying informed, patching quickly, and not relying on any single security measure. So, check your PeopleSoft servers, review your WAF settings, and talk to your team about this bypass. A few minutes of action now could save you from a world of hurt later.