CVE-2003-0658 in docview
Summary
by MITRE
Docview before 1.1-18 in Caldera OpenLinux 3.1.1, SCO Linux 4.0, OpenServer 5.0.7, configures the Apache web server in a way that allows remote attackers to read arbitrary publicly readable files via a certain URL, possibly related to rewrite rules.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/04/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-0658 represents a critical configuration flaw in the Docview component of several Linux distributions including Caldera OpenLinux 3.1.1, SCO Linux 4.0, and OpenServer 5.0.7. This issue stems from improper Apache web server configuration that creates an exploitable path traversal condition, allowing remote attackers to access files that should remain protected. The vulnerability specifically affects versions of Docview prior to 1.1-18 and demonstrates how misconfigured web server components can create significant security risks. The flaw is particularly concerning because it enables attackers to read arbitrary publicly accessible files through carefully crafted URL requests, potentially exposing sensitive system information that could aid in further exploitation attempts. 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. The configuration issue manifests through Apache rewrite rules that fail to properly sanitize user input, creating a direct pathway for unauthorized file access. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it could potentially expose configuration files, system logs, or other sensitive data that might reveal system architecture details or credentials. Attackers could leverage this weakness to gather intelligence about the target system, potentially identifying other vulnerabilities or system components that could be targeted in subsequent phases of an attack. This weakness is particularly dangerous in environments where the web server hosts multiple applications or where sensitive data might be stored in publicly accessible directories. The vulnerability also relates to ATT&CK technique T1213.002, which covers data from information repositories, as it enables unauthorized access to data stored in web-accessible locations. Organizations running affected versions of these operating systems face a significant risk of data exposure and potential system compromise. The root cause lies in the Apache configuration where rewrite rules are not properly validating or sanitizing input parameters, allowing malicious users to manipulate URL paths to access unintended files. This configuration flaw represents a classic example of how default installations or improperly configured security settings can create exploitable conditions in web server environments. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms in web applications, as well as the necessity of regularly updating and reviewing system configurations. The impact of this vulnerability is amplified by the fact that it affects multiple operating systems and distributions, indicating a widespread configuration issue that requires coordinated remediation efforts across affected platforms. System administrators should prioritize immediate patching of the Docview component to address this vulnerability and prevent potential exploitation attempts. The remediation process involves updating to Docview version 1.1-18 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and access control measures. Additionally, organizations should review their Apache configurations to ensure that rewrite rules properly validate user input and implement appropriate access controls to prevent unauthorized file access. Security best practices recommend implementing least privilege access controls and regularly auditing web server configurations to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining current security patches and the risks associated with running outdated software components that may contain known security flaws. Organizations should implement comprehensive security monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts and establish incident response procedures to address successful attacks. The CVE-2003-0658 vulnerability underscores the critical need for proper security configuration management and the potential consequences of inadequate input validation in web server environments.