CVE-2001-0705 in Internet Store
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in tradecli.dll in Arcadia Internet Store 1.0 allows a remote attacker to read arbitrary files on the web server via a URL with "dot dot" sequences in the template argument.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/04/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0705 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the tradecli.dll component of Arcadia Internet Store version 1.0. This weakness enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the web server by manipulating URL parameters through the use of "dot dot" sequences in the template argument. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper handling of file path references within the application's web interface. Directory traversal vulnerabilities of this nature are classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive system files, configuration data, and other restricted resources that should not be accessible through standard web requests.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the Arcadia Internet Store application processes user-supplied template arguments without adequate sanitization or validation of the input paths. When a malicious user crafts a URL containing directory traversal sequences such as "../" or "..\", the application fails to properly validate or sanitize these inputs before using them in file system operations. This allows the attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access files that reside on the web server's file system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through simple HTTP requests without requiring authentication or specialized tools, making it an attractive target for automated scanning and exploitation. The attack vector specifically targets the template argument processing within the tradecli.dll module, which suggests that the application's web server component does not properly enforce security boundaries when handling dynamic template loading operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise if attackers can access critical system files, configuration databases, or application source code. Remote attackers could exploit this vulnerability to read sensitive data such as database connection strings, user credentials stored in configuration files, or even system-level files that could provide further attack vectors. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of the web server environment, as it allows unauthorized access to resources that should remain protected. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers can use the information gained to craft more sophisticated attacks. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk to the availability of the web service, as successful exploitation could lead to data corruption or system instability if attackers gain access to critical system files.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0705 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's template processing logic. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied inputs are rigorously validated and that any directory traversal sequences are either rejected or properly normalized before being processed by the file system operations. The implementation of a whitelist-based approach for template arguments, where only predefined and trusted template names are accepted, provides an effective defense against this type of attack. Additionally, the web server should be configured with appropriate access controls and security boundaries that prevent direct file system access through web requests. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems that can identify and block suspicious URL patterns containing directory traversal sequences. Regular security updates and patches should be applied to ensure that the application remains protected against known vulnerabilities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, particularly in web applications that handle dynamic content loading operations, as these areas represent common attack surfaces for path traversal exploits. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in their web applications and ensure that appropriate security controls are in place to protect against unauthorized file access.