CVE-2000-0554 in Ceilidh
Summary
by MITRE
Ceilidh allows remote attackers to obtain the real path of the Ceilidh directory via the translated_path hidden form field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2000-0554 represents a path traversal flaw within the Ceilidh web application framework that enables remote attackers to discover the actual filesystem location of the application directory. This issue arises from improper input validation and handling of the translated_path hidden form field, which is typically used for internal path resolution but becomes exploitable when not properly sanitized. The vulnerability exists in the application's request processing logic where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into filesystem operations without adequate security checks.
This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of path traversal attacks and can be classified as CWE-22 according to the Common Weakness Enumeration standards. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate the hidden form field to access files and directories that should remain protected within the application's intended scope. The translated_path parameter, when improperly handled, can be exploited to reveal the real filesystem path where Ceilidh is installed, potentially exposing sensitive system information that could aid in further exploitation attempts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with crucial system layout information that can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks. Once the real path is obtained, malicious actors can potentially access configuration files, source code, or other sensitive components that may contain database credentials, application secrets, or other exploitable information. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications that implement server-side includes or dynamic content generation where path resolution is critical for proper application functionality.
The attack vector for this vulnerability involves sending specially crafted requests through the web interface where the translated_path form field is processed. Attackers can manipulate this hidden field to traverse the filesystem and discover the actual directory structure, potentially leading to directory listing, file disclosure, or even remote code execution if the application lacks proper access controls. This issue is particularly concerning in environments where multiple applications share the same server, as it may provide attackers with information to target other applications or system components.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should include comprehensive input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in path resolution operations. Implementing proper access controls and ensuring that applications do not reveal internal filesystem paths through user-facing interfaces is essential. Additionally, the application should validate that any path resolution operations occur within predefined boundaries and that hidden form fields are properly protected against manipulation. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms to prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and other industry standards for preventing path traversal attacks. This type of vulnerability has been consistently identified as a critical risk in web application security assessments and requires immediate remediation to prevent unauthorized information disclosure and potential system compromise.