CVE-2004-2106 in NetWare
Summary
by MITRE
Novell NetWare Enterprise Web Server 5.1 and 6.0 allows remote attackers to list directories via a direct request to (1) /com/, (2) /com/novell/, (3) /com/novell/webaccess, or (4) /ns-icons/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/25/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2106 represents a directory traversal flaw within Novell NetWare Enterprise Web Server versions 5.1 and 6.0 that exposes critical information disclosure capabilities to remote attackers. This weakness stems from improper access control mechanisms within the web server implementation, allowing unauthorized users to bypass normal authentication and authorization checks. The affected paths specifically target the server's internal directory structures, providing attackers with the ability to enumerate content and potentially discover sensitive files or system configurations that should remain hidden from public access. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it affects enterprise-level web server software that would typically handle sensitive business data and corporate resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through direct HTTP requests to specific URI paths that correspond to internal server directories. Attackers can craft requests to /com/, /com/novell/, /com/novell/webaccess, or /ns-icons/ endpoints to retrieve directory listings without proper authentication. This flaw operates at the application layer and demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and access control enforcement within the web server's request handling logic. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22, which specifically addresses Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Data from Information Repositories, as it enables unauthorized access to system information through web-based reconnaissance.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with valuable reconnaissance data that can be used for subsequent attacks. Directory listings may reveal file names, system structure, and potentially sensitive file paths that could lead to further exploitation opportunities. Attackers can use this information to identify backup files, configuration files, or other resources that might contain credentials or system details. The vulnerability affects organizations running legacy Novell NetWare Enterprise Web Server software, which would typically be found in enterprise environments where older systems are still operational. This creates a significant risk for organizations that have not properly migrated or updated their web server infrastructure, leaving them exposed to reconnaissance and potential exploitation activities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention through software updates and configuration changes. Organizations should upgrade to patched versions of Novell NetWare Enterprise Web Server or migrate to supported web server platforms that properly implement access controls. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to these specific endpoints, particularly in production environments. Web server configuration should be reviewed to ensure that directory listing capabilities are disabled and that proper authentication mechanisms are enforced for all internal paths. Additionally, regular security assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar access control vulnerabilities that may exist in other web server components or applications within the enterprise infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing proper access control mechanisms as outlined in industry standards such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 security controls.