CVE-2001-0254 in FTP++ Server
Summary
by MITRE
FaSTream FTP++ Server 2.0 allows remote attackers to obtain the real pathname of the server via the "pwd" command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/29/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0254 affects the FaSTream FTP++ Server version 2.0, representing a significant information disclosure flaw that exposes sensitive server path information to remote attackers. This vulnerability specifically manifests through the use of the "pwd" command, which is a standard FTP command used to query the current working directory of the server. The flaw demonstrates a critical weakness in the server's security architecture where it inadvertently reveals the actual file system paths used by the FTP server, potentially providing attackers with detailed knowledge of the server's internal directory structure and file organization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and response handling within the FTP server's command processing mechanism. When a remote attacker sends a "pwd" command to the vulnerable server, the system responds with the complete absolute path of the current working directory without adequate sanitization or access control measures. This behavior violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and information hiding, as the server exposes internal filesystem details that should remain confidential to prevent attackers from mapping the server's file structure. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-200, which addresses the improper exposure of sensitive information, and represents a classic example of information disclosure through protocol-level responses that reveal system internals.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information gathering, as it significantly undermines the overall security posture of systems running the affected FTP server. Attackers who exploit this vulnerability can use the revealed pathnames to plan more sophisticated attacks, including directory traversal attempts, file system enumeration, and targeted exploitation of specific files or directories. The disclosed information enables attackers to bypass certain security controls that rely on obfuscation of system paths, making subsequent attacks more effective and targeted. This vulnerability particularly impacts organizations that use legacy FTP servers without proper security hardening, as it provides a straightforward method for attackers to gain knowledge about the server's configuration and file structure that could lead to further compromise.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the broader ATT&CK framework, specifically under the reconnaissance phase where adversaries gather information about their target systems. The information disclosure through the "pwd" command aligns with techniques such as system information discovery and credential access patterns that attackers use to map their targets. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to patched versions of the FaSTream FTP++ Server, configuring the server to limit or restrict the responses to "pwd" commands, and implementing network segmentation to limit access to FTP services. Additionally, monitoring for unusual "pwd" command usage and implementing proper access controls through firewall rules can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of regular security assessments and patch management, as it represents a preventable issue that could have been addressed through proper security testing and configuration management practices.