CVE-2001-0304 in Resin
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Caucho Resin 1.2.2 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a "\.." (dot dot) in a URL request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0304 represents a classic directory traversal flaw in the Caucho Resin web application server version 1.2.2. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application server's URL parsing logic, allowing malicious actors to exploit path traversal techniques through specially crafted URL requests containing double dot sequences. The vulnerability specifically affects the handling of directory navigation elements within web requests, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to sensitive system files that should remain protected from remote exploitation.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates by manipulating URL request parameters to navigate outside the intended web root directory through the use of backslash sequences such as "\..". When the web server processes these requests, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the input paths, enabling attackers to traverse the file system hierarchy and access files that are not meant to be publicly accessible. The flaw exists at the application layer where the server processes user-supplied input without adequate sanitization, making it possible for remote attackers to retrieve arbitrary files from the underlying operating system. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to access sensitive configuration files, source code repositories, system credentials, and other confidential data stored on the affected server. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to critical system resources, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network privileges to carry out successful attacks, making it particularly dangerous in internet-facing environments. Attackers can systematically enumerate directories and files to identify valuable targets, including database connection strings, administrative credentials, and application configuration details that could facilitate further exploitation.
Organizations utilizing Caucho Resin 1.2.2 are strongly advised to implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to patched versions of the software, implementing proper input validation at all entry points, and deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious path traversal patterns. The remediation approach should follow established security practices such as implementing principle of least privilege, restricting file system access permissions, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices that prevent user input from directly influencing file system operations, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566.001 for malicious file execution. Organizations should also consider implementing automated security scanning tools that can detect similar path traversal vulnerabilities in their web applications and infrastructure components.