CVE-2004-2287 in Light Web File Browser
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in explorer.php in DSM Light Web File Browser 2.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via .. (dot dot) in the wdir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2287 represents a classic directory traversal flaw within the DSM Light Web File Browser version 2.0 web application. This security weakness resides in the explorer.php script which processes file browsing requests through the wdir parameter. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied directory paths, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file system access through crafted URL parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental weakness in path resolution logic where the web application does not adequately filter or sanitize the wdir parameter value before using it to construct file system paths. When attackers append directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) to the wdir parameter, the application processes these sequences without proper validation, enabling access to files outside the intended directory structure. This flaw directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially execute unauthorized operations within the web application's scope. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to read arbitrary files on the server, potentially including system configuration files, database connection details, or other sensitive data that could facilitate further exploitation. The attack vector requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the vulnerable web application.
Organizations exposed to this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file system operations. The recommended approach involves implementing strict path validation that ensures all directory paths remain within predefined safe boundaries and rejects any input containing directory traversal sequences. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation within the web application can limit the damage potential of such attacks. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers the discovery of files and directories, and demonstrates the importance of proper input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security principles. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar path traversal vulnerabilities across their web application portfolio.