CVE-2000-0174 in StarOffice
Summary
by MITRE
StarOffice StarScheduler web server allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0174 affects the StarOffice StarScheduler web server component, which represents a significant security flaw in enterprise office software infrastructure. This issue manifests as a directory traversal vulnerability that enables remote attackers to access files outside the intended web root directory. The StarScheduler component is part of the broader StarOffice suite, which was widely deployed in corporate environments for document management and collaboration services. The vulnerability specifically exploits improper input validation mechanisms within the web server's file handling routines, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file path requests through directory traversal sequences.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the classic double dot or dot dot attack pattern where attackers append sequences such as ../../../etc/passwd or similar path traversal strings to file access requests. When the web server processes these malformed requests, it fails to properly sanitize the input paths, leading to unauthorized file access. This flaw operates at the application layer and demonstrates a classic lack of proper path validation and access control enforcement. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The attack vector requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, making it particularly dangerous for networked environments where the StarScheduler component is exposed to external networks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as attackers could potentially access sensitive configuration files, user data, and system resources that should remain protected. In enterprise environments, this could lead to unauthorized access to proprietary documents, user credentials, and internal system information that might reveal network topology or other sensitive details. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of data stored within the StarOffice environment, potentially enabling further exploitation such as privilege escalation or lateral movement within the network. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers could use the discovered information to craft more sophisticated attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-0174 should focus on implementing proper input validation and access control mechanisms within the web server component. Organizations should immediately apply vendor patches or updates when available, as this vulnerability was widely recognized and addressed in subsequent releases. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit exposure by restricting direct access to the StarScheduler web server from untrusted networks. Additionally, implementing proper file access controls, disabling unnecessary web server features, and conducting regular security audits of web applications can help prevent exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, where applications should never trust user-supplied input and should always validate and sanitize all file access requests. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.