CVE-2000-0686 in Auction Weaver
Summary
by MITRE
Auction Weaver CGI script 1.03 and earlier allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) attack in the fromfile parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/18/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0686 affects the Auction Weaver CGI script version 1.03 and earlier, representing a classic path traversal flaw that enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the target system. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the fromfile parameter processing, where the script fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data before using it to construct file paths. The vulnerability operates by exploiting the directory traversal sequence .. which allows attackers to navigate up the directory structure and access files outside the intended web root or restricted directories. This type of flaw falls under the category of CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a fundamental security weakness in file system access controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the CGI script accepting a fromfile parameter that directly influences file operations without proper validation or sanitization. When an attacker supplies a malicious path containing directory traversal sequences, the script processes these inputs without restricting access to legitimate directories, thereby allowing unauthorized file reads. The operational impact is significant as attackers can potentially access sensitive system files, configuration data, database files, or other confidential information stored on the server. This vulnerability represents a critical security risk that could lead to complete system compromise, especially when combined with other exploitation techniques or when the target system hosts sensitive data.
The attack vector for CVE-2000-0686 aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: Unix Shell, as attackers can leverage the path traversal capability to execute reconnaissance activities and gather intelligence about the target system. This vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1566.001 - Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, as it could be exploited through malicious attachments or links that trigger the vulnerable CGI script with crafted parameters. The exploitation process typically involves sending a specially crafted HTTP request containing the malicious fromfile parameter with directory traversal sequences, which when processed by the vulnerable script results in unauthorized file access. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper access controls in web applications, as it represents a fundamental failure in the principle of least privilege.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the Auction Weaver CGI script to version 1.04 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures can prevent directory traversal attacks by rejecting or filtering out malicious path sequences. Web application firewalls and security monitoring systems should be configured to detect and block requests containing directory traversal patterns. System administrators should also implement proper file access controls and restrict the web server's ability to access sensitive system directories. The remediation process should include comprehensive security testing to ensure that no other similar vulnerabilities exist within the application or related systems. This vulnerability serves as a prime example of why regular security assessments and timely patch management are essential components of any cybersecurity program, as it represents a straightforward yet dangerous flaw that can be exploited by attackers with minimal technical skill.