CVE-2002-2050 in ModLogAn
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in processor_web plugin for ModLogAn 0.5.0 through 0.7.11, when used with the splitby option, allows local users to overwrite arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the hostname of a log entry.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/08/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-2050 represents a directory traversal flaw within the processor_web plugin of ModLogAn version 0.5.0 through 0.7.11. This issue specifically manifests when the plugin operates with the splitby option enabled, creating a dangerous condition that allows local attackers to manipulate file system operations through crafted log entries. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of hostname data within the logging processing pipeline, which directly impacts how the system handles file paths during log splitting operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of hostname values in log entries to include directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) characters. When the processor_web plugin processes these maliciously crafted log entries with the splitby option active, it fails to properly sanitize the hostname data before using it in file system operations. This allows an attacker to specify paths that traverse up directory structures, potentially overwriting critical system files or injecting malicious content into arbitrary locations within the file system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as a directory traversal attack, which represents one of the most common and dangerous classes of file system vulnerabilities in web applications and log processing systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file overwrites to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity violations. Local users with access to write log entries can leverage this weakness to modify critical system files, potentially leading to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the integrity of the logging infrastructure itself, as it allows attackers to corrupt or manipulate log data that is crucial for security monitoring and forensic analysis. Attackers can exploit this to hide their activities by overwriting log files, inject malicious content into the system, or disrupt normal logging operations that are essential for system administration and security incident response.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2002-2050 should focus on immediate patching of the affected ModLogAn versions, as well as implementing robust input validation and sanitization measures within the plugin's processing logic. Organizations should ensure that all hostname data is properly validated and sanitized before being used in file system operations, particularly when the splitby option is enabled. The implementation of proper path validation techniques, including canonicalization checks and absolute path restrictions, can prevent directory traversal attempts. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing least privilege principles for log processing components and regularly audit log file integrity to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in security-sensitive applications and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for directory traversal attacks, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security controls in log processing and management systems.