CVE-2005-1382 in Application Server Web Cache
Summary
by MITRE
The webcacheadmin module in Oracle Webcache 9i allows remote attackers to corrupt arbitrary files via a full pathname in the cache_dump_file parameter.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1382 affects Oracle Webcache 9i's webcacheadmin module, presenting a critical path traversal flaw that enables remote attackers to manipulate file system operations. This security weakness resides within the cache_dump_file parameter handling mechanism, where insufficient input validation permits malicious actors to specify arbitrary file paths for corruption or modification. The vulnerability stems from the module's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input, creating an avenue for attackers to exploit the webcache administration interface.
This flaw represents a classic path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22, which occurs when an application allows access to files and directories stored on the file system through user-supplied input without proper validation. The technical implementation allows attackers to craft malicious requests that target the cache_dump_file parameter, enabling them to specify complete file paths that may extend beyond the intended directory boundaries. When processed by the vulnerable webcacheadmin module, these inputs can result in arbitrary file corruption, deletion, or modification, potentially compromising the integrity of the webcache system and underlying file system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file system manipulation, as it provides attackers with the capability to corrupt critical webcache configuration files, application data, or even system-level files depending on the privileges of the webcache service account. Remote exploitation of this flaw does not require authentication, making it particularly dangerous as attackers can leverage it from any network location to compromise the webcache server. The vulnerability affects organizations using Oracle Webcache 9i in production environments, where the webcacheadmin module is accessible over the network, potentially leading to complete system compromise or data integrity violations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-1382 should prioritize immediate patching of Oracle Webcache 9i installations with the vendor-provided security updates. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to restrict access to the webcacheadmin module, ensuring that only authorized administrative systems can reach the vulnerable interface. Additional defensive measures include implementing input validation controls, restricting file system permissions for the webcache service account, and monitoring for suspicious file system activities. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving file and directory permissions modification and path traversal, with potential progression toward privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting the cache_dump_file parameter and establish comprehensive monitoring of file system changes to detect exploitation attempts.