CVE-2002-0874 in InterChange
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in Interchange 4.8.6, 4.8.3, and other versions, when running in INET mode, allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/16/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0874 represents a critical security flaw in the Interchange shopping cart software ecosystem, specifically affecting versions 4.8.6 and 4.8.3 when operating in INET mode. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation mechanisms within the application's file handling processes, creating a path for remote attackers to exploit the system's file access controls. The flaw manifests when the application fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied input parameters that are subsequently used to construct file paths or execute file operations, allowing malicious actors to manipulate these inputs to traverse the file system and access unauthorized files.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. When Interchange operates in INET mode, it typically listens on network ports and accepts external connections, making it susceptible to remote exploitation. The vulnerability occurs because the software does not properly validate or filter input parameters that are used to determine which files to read or process, enabling attackers to inject malicious path components such as '../' sequences that can navigate up the directory tree and access files outside of the intended application scope. This weakness is particularly dangerous in web applications where user input is frequently processed without adequate sanitization.
The operational impact of CVE-2002-0874 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to read sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other confidential information that may reveal system architecture details. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not need physical access to the system or local network privileges to carry out successful attacks. This characteristic places organizations running affected Interchange versions at significant risk, particularly those with internet-facing web applications. The attack surface is further expanded when the application has access to sensitive directories or when the web server configuration allows access to system files or application data that should remain protected.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the Interchange application code. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied input parameters are rigorously validated and filtered before being used in file operations or path construction. The implementation of a whitelist-based approach for file access controls, where only predetermined safe file paths are allowed, provides an effective defense against path traversal attacks. System administrators should also consider restricting file access permissions for the Interchange application, ensuring that it operates with minimal necessary privileges and cannot access sensitive system files. Additionally, network-level protections such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help monitor for suspicious file access patterns, while regular security audits and code reviews can identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing remote code execution and information disclosure attacks.