CVE-2002-2085 in WWWeBBB
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in page.cgi of WWWeBBB Forum 3.82 beta and earlier allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in an HTTP request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2002-2085 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the WWWeBBB Forum 3.82 beta and earlier versions. This security weakness resides in the page.cgi component of the web application, which fails to properly validate user input containing directory traversal sequences. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to access files outside the intended directory structure by manipulating HTTP requests with .. (dot dot) sequences, effectively bypassing access controls and potentially exposing sensitive system information.
This directory traversal vulnerability maps to CWE-22 in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The flaw occurs when the application processes user-supplied input without adequate sanitization or validation, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths through carefully crafted requests. The WWWeBBB Forum's page.cgi script does not properly filter or sanitize input parameters that contain directory traversal sequences, creating an exploitable condition where arbitrary file access becomes possible.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to access sensitive files that may contain database credentials, configuration settings, application source code, or other confidential information. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to read system files, potentially including password files, configuration databases, or application source code that could reveal additional security flaws. The implications are particularly severe for web applications that store sensitive data or contain authentication mechanisms within their file structures.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically mapping it to the T1083 technique for discovering files and directories. The vulnerability enables adversaries to perform reconnaissance activities and gather intelligence about the target system. Mitigation strategies should include implementing proper input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied data, particularly in file path parameters. Organizations should also deploy web application firewalls, implement proper access controls, and ensure that all web applications are updated to versions that address this specific directory traversal flaw. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack.
The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in web applications and highlights how seemingly simple flaws can provide extensive access to system resources. Organizations should maintain updated security patches and implement defense-in-depth strategies to prevent exploitation of similar directory traversal vulnerabilities. Regular vulnerability assessments and security training for development teams can help prevent the introduction of such flaws in future application versions.