CVE-2000-0683 in WebLogic Server
Summary
by MITRE
BEA WebLogic 5.1.x allows remote attackers to read source code for parsed pages by inserting /*.shtml/ into the URL, which invokes the SSIServlet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2000-0683 represents a critical information disclosure flaw within BEA WebLogic Server version 5.1.x that enables remote attackers to access sensitive source code files through a specific URL manipulation technique. This vulnerability exploits the server's handling of certain file extensions and servlet invocation mechanisms to bypass normal access controls and retrieve server-side parsed content that should remain protected. The attack vector specifically targets the SSIServlet component within the WebLogic server infrastructure, which processes requests for server-side includes and parsed pages.
The technical exploitation occurs when an attacker appends the malicious path fragment /*.shtml/ to a URL, which triggers the SSIServlet to process the request and return the source code of parsed pages rather than the compiled or processed output. This behavior stems from improper input validation and path traversal handling within the WebLogic server's servlet processing pipeline. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal issue where the server fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before processing file requests, allowing attackers to access files outside the intended document root through carefully crafted URL structures. This flaw falls under the category of CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-200 Information Exposure, as it enables unauthorized access to sensitive server-side source code and configuration files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the exposed source code may contain sensitive application logic, database connection strings, API keys, and other confidential information that could be leveraged for further attacks. Attackers can potentially gain insights into application architecture, business logic implementation, and system configuration details that would otherwise remain hidden. This information could facilitate more sophisticated attacks including injection attacks, privilege escalation, or social engineering campaigns. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality aspect of the CIA triad, as unauthorized parties can access protected content that should only be available to authorized users or system processes. The attack requires no special privileges or authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with network access to the vulnerable WebLogic server instance.
Organizations running affected BEA WebLogic 5.1.x servers should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches, configuring proper access controls and input validation rules, and implementing network-level restrictions to limit exposure to trusted networks only. The mitigation strategy should include disabling unnecessary servlet functionality, implementing proper URL filtering mechanisms, and conducting comprehensive security audits of all deployed web applications. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious URL patterns, as well as establishing monitoring procedures to detect unusual access patterns or unauthorized file access attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 Valid Account and T1083 File and Directory Discovery, as it enables attackers to gather information about the target system through legitimate access mechanisms while maintaining stealth during reconnaissance phases. The remediation efforts should also include regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning to identify similar issues in other web server components or applications within the organization's infrastructure.