CVE-2002-0879 in CFXImage
Summary
by MITRE
showtemp.cfm for Gafware CFXImage 1.6.6 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via (1) a .. or (2) a C: style pathname in the FILE parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-0879 affects Gafware CFXImage version 1.6.6 through a critical flaw in the showtemp.cfm component that processes file requests. This vulnerability represents a classic path traversal attack vector that enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server filesystem through manipulated input parameters. The flaw specifically manifests when the application processes the FILE parameter without adequate input validation or sanitization mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper path validation in the file handling routine. Attackers can manipulate the FILE parameter using either double dot sequences .. to traverse parent directories or Windows-style absolute pathnames beginning with C: to access files outside the intended directory structure. This type of vulnerability falls 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 vulnerability allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially retrieve sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, or other system resources that should remain protected.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides remote attackers with unauthorized access to the server's file system. An attacker could potentially extract sensitive information, including but not limited to database connection strings, application configuration files, user credentials, or even system files that could lead to further compromise of the affected system. This vulnerability essentially allows an attacker to perform reconnaissance and potentially escalate privileges by accessing critical system components that should not be publicly accessible.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is particularly concerning given the nature of web applications that process user input to access system resources. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental lack of input sanitization and access control mechanisms that should be implemented at multiple layers of application security. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers could use this to discover sensitive files and potentially craft more sophisticated attacks. Organizations should implement proper input validation, enforce strict file access controls, and utilize secure coding practices to prevent such path traversal vulnerabilities from occurring in their applications.
Mitigation strategies should include implementing proper input validation that filters out or rejects suspicious path sequences including double dots and absolute path indicators. The application should enforce strict directory boundaries and validate that all file access requests remain within designated safe directories. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls, regular security code reviews, and application firewalls can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Organizations should also consider upgrading to patched versions of the affected software and implementing comprehensive monitoring to detect suspicious file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.