CVE-2005-3136 in Web Player
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Virtools Web Player 3.0.0.100 and earlier allows remote attackers to overwrite arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in a filename.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-3136 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Virtools Web Player 3.0.0.100 and earlier versions. This security weakness specifically affects the web player component used for rendering 3D content in web browsers, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate file system operations through carefully crafted input. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize file names containing directory traversal sequences, allowing malicious actors to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access or modify arbitrary files on the system.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when the Virtools Web Player processes file requests that contain .. (dot dot) sequences in their filenames. These sequences, when not properly filtered or validated, enable attackers to traverse up the directory hierarchy and target files outside the designated web root or application directory. The vulnerability operates at the file system level, where the web player's file handling routines do not adequately verify the integrity of path specifications, allowing the traversal to proceed without proper authorization checks. This weakness specifically aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes directory traversal vulnerabilities as 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 file access, as it provides attackers with the capability to overwrite critical system files, modify application configuration, or even inject malicious code into the web player environment. Remote exploitation of this flaw does not require authentication or specialized privileges, making it particularly dangerous in web environments where the Virtools Web Player is deployed. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, modify application behavior, or potentially escalate privileges depending on the system configuration and permissions assigned to the web player process. The vulnerability also presents risks for web server compromise, as successful exploitation could lead to broader system infiltration and persistence mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-3136 focus primarily on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by the vendor. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to Virtools Web Player versions that have addressed this directory traversal vulnerability, as the original affected versions lack proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Additionally, implementing network-level restrictions such as firewall rules that limit access to the web player components can reduce exposure. Input validation should be strengthened at multiple layers including application-level filtering of file names, implementation of proper path normalization routines, and enforcement of strict access controls that prevent file system traversal operations. System administrators should also consider implementing principle of least privilege configurations for web player processes and regular security audits to identify potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for credential access through exploitation of web application vulnerabilities.