CVE-2004-1670 in Web Mail
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities Merak Mail Server 7.4.5 with Icewarp Web Mail 5.2.7, and possibly other versions, allow remote attackers to (1) create arbitrary directories via a .. (dot dot) in the user parameter to viewaction.html or (2) rename arbitrary files via a ....// (doubled dot dot) in the folderold or folder parameters to folders.html.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2019
The CVE-2004-1670 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting Merak Mail Server 7.4.5 combined with Icewarp Web Mail 5.2.7, presenting significant security risks to email server infrastructure. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the web-based administrative interface, specifically targeting parameters used for user management and folder operations. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate file system paths through carefully crafted malicious inputs, potentially leading to unauthorized system access and data compromise. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in email server environments where administrative access can provide extensive control over user accounts, email storage, and system configurations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes path traversal attacks as a fundamental weakness in input validation, and represents a classic example of improper input sanitization that can escalate to full system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper path validation in two distinct attack vectors within the web mail interface. The first vector targets the user parameter in viewaction.html where attackers can inject .. (dot dot) sequences to traverse directory structures and create arbitrary directories, effectively bypassing normal file system access controls. The second vector operates through the folderold or folder parameters in folders.html, where attackers can utilize ....// (doubled dot dot) sequences to rename arbitrary files, potentially overwriting critical system files or moving sensitive data to unauthorized locations. Both attack methods leverage the fundamental weakness in how the application processes user-supplied input without proper sanitization or validation of path components. This type of vulnerability demonstrates the classic attack pattern described in the ATT&CK framework under T1059 for command and script injection, and T1566 for credential access through exploitation of web application vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-1670 extends far beyond simple directory traversal, as successful exploitation can provide attackers with complete control over the affected email server's file system. Attackers could potentially create backdoor accounts, modify system configuration files, access user email data, or even escalate privileges to gain root access on the underlying operating system. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access or prior authentication to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that do not properly segment their email server infrastructure. Organizations using this vulnerable software configuration face risks including data exfiltration, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure, as email servers often contain sensitive information and serve as entry points for broader attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1670 should focus on immediate software updates and input validation improvements. The most effective approach involves upgrading to patched versions of both Merak Mail Server and Icewarp Web Mail, as the vulnerability was addressed in subsequent releases through proper input sanitization and path validation mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation at all application layers, particularly for parameters handling file paths and directory operations. Network segmentation and firewall rules should restrict access to administrative interfaces, while implementing web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious path traversal attempts. Regular security audits and penetration testing should verify that all input parameters are properly sanitized, and organizations should establish secure coding practices that prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future applications. The remediation process must also include monitoring for exploitation attempts and ensuring that all administrative interfaces are protected through strong authentication mechanisms and access controls to prevent unauthorized access to potentially vulnerable systems.