CVE-2004-0302 in Owls Workshop
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in OWLS 1.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the (1) file parameter in index.php, (2) editfile in glossary.php, or (3) editfile in newmultiplechoice.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-0302 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting OWLS 1.0, a web-based learning management system. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application's file handling processes, specifically in three distinct endpoints that process file operations. The vulnerability allows malicious actors to exploit the system by manipulating URL parameters to access files outside the intended directory structure, potentially exposing sensitive data and system resources.
The technical exploitation occurs through the manipulation of specific parameters in three different PHP scripts: index.php with the file parameter, glossary.php with the editfile parameter, and newmultiplechoice.php with the editfile parameter. Attackers can utilize the .. (dot dot) sequence in these parameters to navigate upward through the directory hierarchy, bypassing normal file access controls. This technique leverages the fundamental weakness in how the application processes user-supplied input without proper sanitization or validation, creating an unrestricted file access condition that falls under the CWE-22 category for Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to access not only configuration files and database credentials but potentially system files, user data, and application source code. This exposure creates a significant risk for organizations deploying OWLS 1.0, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data breaches, and unauthorized access to educational content and user information. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing) as attackers may use this weakness to gather intelligence for further attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-0302 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms across all affected endpoints. Organizations should employ absolute path validation, implement proper parameter filtering, and utilize secure coding practices that prevent path traversal attacks. The recommended approach involves validating all user-supplied input against a whitelist of allowed characters and directories, implementing proper access controls, and ensuring that file operations occur within designated safe directories. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure development practices and conducting regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in web applications. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts.