CVE-2000-0687 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 catdir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0687 affects Auction Weaver CGI script versions 1.03 and earlier, representing a classic directory traversal flaw that enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the affected system. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the catdir parameter processing functionality of the web application. The vulnerability operates by exploiting the lack of proper sanitization of user-supplied input, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file paths through directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation. When the CGI script processes the catdir parameter without adequate restrictions, it fails to prevent access to files outside the intended directory structure, thereby exposing the underlying file system to unauthorized access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes directory traversal attacks as a fundamental weakness in input validation. Attackers can exploit this flaw by constructing malicious URLs that include directory traversal sequences in the catdir parameter, potentially accessing sensitive system files, configuration data, or user information stored on the web server. The vulnerability represents a significant security risk as it allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and retrieve files that should remain protected, including system configuration files, database files, or other sensitive data that may contain credentials or other exploitable information. The impact extends beyond simple file access to potentially enable further exploitation through the exposure of system internals or sensitive data that could be leveraged for additional attacks.
The operational consequences of CVE-2000-0687 can be severe for organizations running affected versions of the Auction Weaver CGI script, as it provides attackers with direct access to the file system through the web interface. This vulnerability can result in data breaches, system compromise, and potential full system control depending on the permissions of the web server process. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no special privileges or authentication to exploit, making it a high-severity threat that can be leveraged by anyone with access to the affected web application. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers directory and file permissions enumeration, as attackers can use this flaw to discover and access files that would normally be protected by proper access controls. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues and potential legal consequences if sensitive data is compromised through this vulnerability, as it represents a failure to implement proper input validation and access control measures.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2000-0687 should focus on immediate patching of the affected Auction Weaver CGI script to version 1.04 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization of the catdir parameter. Organizations should also implement proper input validation at the application level by sanitizing all user-supplied input and rejecting any requests containing directory traversal sequences. Additional defensive measures include implementing proper access controls, restricting file system permissions for the web server process, and deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block directory traversal attempts. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications, while also ensuring that all third-party software components are kept up to date with the latest security patches. The remediation process should also include monitoring for exploitation attempts and implementing proper logging and alerting mechanisms to detect unauthorized access attempts that may indicate active exploitation of this vulnerability.