CVE-2003-1166 in HTTP Commander
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in (1) Openfile.aspx and (2) Html.aspx in HTTP Commander 4.0 allows remote attackers to view arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1166 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in HTTP Commander 4.0, specifically affecting two key components: Openfile.aspx and Html.aspx. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied file parameters, creating an exploitable condition where remote attackers can manipulate file paths to access unauthorized system resources. The flaw manifests when the application processes file parameters without sufficient sanitization, allowing malicious actors to append directory traversal sequences such as .. to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries and access files outside the web root or designated access zones.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. This weakness enables attackers to access files and directories that are stored on the server but are not intended to be accessible through the web application interface. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests that manipulate the file parameter to include traversal sequences, effectively bypassing access controls and potentially exposing sensitive system files, configuration data, or user information. The impact extends beyond simple file access, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities or when sensitive files such as database credentials, system configuration files, or source code are accessible through this vector.
The operational impact of CVE-2003-1166 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with unauthorized access to arbitrary files on the server hosting HTTP Commander 4.0. This can result in information disclosure of sensitive data including but not limited to database connection strings, application configuration files, user credentials, and potentially source code that may contain additional vulnerabilities. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates without requiring authentication, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools. Attackers can leverage this flaw to perform reconnaissance activities, gather intelligence about the target system, and potentially escalate privileges or move laterally within the network. The vulnerability also poses a risk to the confidentiality and integrity of the system, as it may allow attackers to modify or delete critical files, leading to service disruption or complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization mechanisms that prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed by the application. Organizations should ensure that all file parameters are properly validated against a whitelist of allowed characters and paths, and that the application enforces strict access controls to prevent unauthorized file access. The implementation of proper path normalization and canonicalization techniques can help prevent attackers from manipulating file paths through traversal sequences. Additionally, system administrators should ensure that HTTP Commander 4.0 is updated to the latest available version that contains patches addressing this vulnerability, and that the application is configured with minimal required permissions to limit the damage that could result from exploitation. Security monitoring and logging should be implemented to detect and alert on suspicious file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and conducting regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar path traversal vulnerabilities in web applications. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers can use the information gathered through directory traversal to craft more sophisticated attacks.