CVE-2005-1846 in YAMT
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in YaMT before 0.5_2 allow attackers to overwrite arbitrary files via the (1) rename or (2) sort options.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1846 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting the YaMT file manager software version 0.5_2 and earlier. This vulnerability resides within the software's handling of file operations, specifically targeting the rename and sort functionalities that are commonly used in file management interfaces. The flaw enables malicious actors to manipulate file paths in ways that bypass normal access controls and directory restrictions, creating potential for unauthorized file system modifications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path resolution mechanisms within the YaMT application. When users attempt to rename or sort files through the affected interface, the software fails to properly sanitize user-supplied path parameters. This allows attackers to inject malicious path sequences that can traverse directory boundaries and access files outside of the intended operational scope. The vulnerability specifically affects the software's ability to validate file paths, enabling attackers to craft requests that target arbitrary locations within the file system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access violations to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity breaches. Attackers could leverage this flaw to overwrite critical system files, modify configuration data, or inject malicious content into targeted directories. The ability to overwrite arbitrary files creates a significant risk for system administrators who rely on YaMT for file management operations, as it could enable complete system compromise through strategic file replacement attacks. This vulnerability essentially provides attackers with a pathway to escalate privileges and gain persistent access to affected systems.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreters, as attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to execute malicious code through file system modifications. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while also ensuring that all file management applications undergo rigorous security testing for path validation and input sanitization.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected YaMT installations to version 0.5_2 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for directory traversal protection. System administrators should also implement additional security measures such as restricting file manager access to authorized personnel only, implementing proper file system permissions, and monitoring for suspicious file operations. Regular security audits of file management interfaces and input validation mechanisms are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other software components. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and path sanitization in preventing directory traversal attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.