CVE-2001-1138 in Power Up HTML
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in r.pl (aka r.cgi) of Randy Parker Power Up HTML 0.8033beta allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files and possibly execute arbitrary code via a .. (dot dot) in the FILE parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2001-1138 represents a classic directory traversal flaw that existed in the r.pl script component of Randy Parker Power Up HTML version 0.8033beta. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input that is used to construct file paths, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the FILE parameter through the use of directory traversal sequences such as "..".
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the r.pl script which processes user requests for file access. When an attacker submits a request containing a .. sequence in the FILE parameter, the script does not adequately sanitize this input before using it to construct file system paths. This allows the attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access files that should normally be restricted. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can potentially lead to both information disclosure and arbitrary code execution, depending on the system configuration and the files accessible through the traversal mechanism. The attack vector relies on the application's failure to properly validate user-supplied input before using it to reference system files.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-1138 extends beyond simple file access, as it can enable attackers to read sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially execute malicious code on the target system. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments) as attackers can leverage such flaws to discover system information and potentially gain further access to compromised systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in web environments where the script is accessible to remote users, as it can be exploited without requiring any special privileges or authentication. The exposure of system files through directory traversal can provide attackers with critical information about the system architecture, user credentials, and application configuration that can be used for further exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve implementing proper input validation and sanitization techniques that ensure all user-supplied parameters are thoroughly checked before being used in file system operations. The recommended approach includes implementing a whitelist-based validation system that only allows specific, safe file paths or using secure coding practices that prevent path traversal sequences from being processed. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and privilege separation to limit the impact of such vulnerabilities. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates the importance of regular security assessments and code reviews to identify and remediate similar issues in legacy applications. The remediation process should involve updating to patched versions of the Power Up HTML software or implementing proper input validation mechanisms that prevent the exploitation of directory traversal vulnerabilities. This vulnerability serves as a historical example of why secure coding practices and input validation are essential components of application security, particularly in web applications that handle user input for file system operations.