CVE-2001-0217 in WebPALS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in PALS Library System pals-cgi program allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the documentName parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-0217 represents a classic directory traversal flaw within the PALS Library System's pals-cgi program, which fundamentally compromises the system's file access controls and data integrity. This weakness allows remote attackers to manipulate file paths through the documentName parameter by utilizing directory traversal sequences such as .. to navigate upward through the file system hierarchy. The vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and proper input validation, creating an exploitable condition where unauthorized file access becomes possible.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates by failing to properly sanitize user-supplied input before processing file requests within the PALS Library System. When the pals-cgi program receives a documentName parameter containing directory traversal sequences, it processes these requests without adequate validation or filtering mechanisms. The flaw enables attackers to bypass normal file access restrictions and potentially access sensitive system files, configuration data, or other restricted resources that should remain protected from remote access. The vulnerability specifically targets the documentName parameter, making it a targeted attack vector rather than a general system weakness.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to access system configuration files, user credentials, database files, or other sensitive information stored within the system's file structure. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly without requiring additional authentication or system access, making it particularly dangerous for networked systems. This weakness can facilitate further attacks including privilege escalation, system reconnaissance, and potential complete system takeover depending on the system's security posture and file permissions.
Security professionals should address this vulnerability through multiple mitigation strategies including immediate patching of affected systems, implementing proper input validation and sanitization, and applying web application firewalls to filter malicious directory traversal sequences. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper access controls as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and defense evasion techniques. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments and maintain updated vulnerability management processes to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in their systems.