CVE-2003-1172 in Cocoon
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the view-source sample file in Apache Software Foundation Cocoon 2.1 and 2.2 allows remote attackers to access arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the filename parameter.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/20/2024
The directory traversal vulnerability identified in CVE-2003-1172 affects Apache Cocoon versions 2.1 and 2.2, specifically within the view-source sample file functionality. This vulnerability represents a classic path traversal flaw that enables malicious actors to access arbitrary files on the server by manipulating the filename parameter through the use of .. (dot dot) sequences. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the Cocoon framework's file access mechanisms, allowing attackers to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries.
This technical flaw operates by exploiting the lack of proper path validation in the view-source sample file component, which processes user-supplied filename parameters without sufficient sanitization. When a user provides a filename parameter containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize these inputs before processing file access requests. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to bypass normal file access controls and potentially retrieve sensitive files including configuration files, source code, or other system resources that should remain protected. The issue is categorized under CWE-22 as "Improper Limiting of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')", which is a fundamental security weakness that has plagued software systems for decades.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. Attackers can leverage this weakness to access critical system files, application configuration data, database connection details, or even execute arbitrary code if the application has additional vulnerabilities. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in web applications where user input is processed without proper validation, as it can be exploited through simple HTTP requests that manipulate the filename parameter. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments) as attackers can use it to discover and extract sensitive files from the target system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve implementing comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures, particularly for file access parameters. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied input is properly validated against a whitelist of allowed characters and patterns, with special attention to directory traversal sequences. The recommended approach includes implementing proper path normalization and validation routines that reject or sanitize any input containing .. or similar traversal patterns. Additionally, applications should be configured to run with minimal privileges and implement proper access controls that prevent access to sensitive system resources. Security patches and updates should be applied immediately to address the vulnerability, as the Apache Cocoon project has released versions that correct this issue through enhanced input validation and proper path handling mechanisms. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file access patterns and prevent exploitation attempts.