CVE-2003-1153 in byteHoard
Summary
by MITRE
byteHoard 0.7 and 0.71 allows remote attackers to list arbitrary files and directories via a direct request to files.inc.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1153 affects byteHoard versions 0.7 and 0.71, representing a critical information disclosure flaw that enables remote attackers to enumerate arbitrary files and directories on the affected system. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the application's file handling components, specifically within the files.inc.php script that processes file operations. The flaw operates by allowing attackers to craft direct HTTP requests that bypass normal application logic and access control measures, thereby exposing the underlying file system structure to unauthorized parties.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the improper sanitization of user-supplied input parameters that are passed to the files.inc.php script. When attackers submit crafted requests containing specific parameters, the application fails to validate or sanitize these inputs before using them in file system operations. This lack of input validation creates a path traversal condition that allows attackers to manipulate the file access routines and retrieve directory listings or file contents that should otherwise remain protected. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as "Improper Limiting of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 for "File and Directory Discovery," demonstrating how attackers can leverage application flaws to gather intelligence about the target system's file structure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with comprehensive knowledge of the application's file system layout and potentially exposes sensitive files, configuration data, or application source code. Remote attackers can systematically enumerate directories and files to identify potential targets for further exploitation, including database configuration files, backup copies, or other sensitive resources. This reconnaissance capability significantly weakens the overall security posture by removing the element of surprise and providing attackers with detailed maps of the target environment. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates without requiring authentication or specific privileges, making it accessible to any remote user who can reach the affected web application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2003-1153 should focus on implementing proper input validation, access control, and secure coding practices within the byteHoard application. The most effective immediate solution involves patching the application to version 0.72 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and access control mechanisms. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious requests targeting the files.inc.php script, and establish proper network segmentation to limit access to the vulnerable application. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar input validation flaws in other components, while implementing principle of least privilege access controls to minimize the potential damage from any future vulnerabilities. The remediation process should also include disabling unnecessary file listing features and implementing proper authentication mechanisms to ensure that only authorized users can access file management functions.