CVE-2006-1161 in Efs Web Server
Summary
by MITRE
Absolute path traversal vulnerability in Easy File Sharing (EFS) Web Server 3.2 allows remote registered users to execute arbitrary code by uploading a malicious file to the Windows startup folder.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/16/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-1161 represents a critical absolute path traversal flaw within the Easy File Sharing Web Server version 3.2 that exposes remote authenticated users to potential arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper path handling mechanisms within the web server's file upload functionality. The flaw specifically manifests when registered users attempt to upload files to the Windows startup folder, which creates a privileged execution environment where malicious payloads can be automatically executed upon system reboot or user login. The underlying technical issue resides in the server's failure to properly sanitize or validate file paths during the upload process, allowing attackers to manipulate the destination directory through crafted file names or upload parameters. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with persistent access to compromised systems through the Windows startup folder mechanism, effectively creating a backdoor that survives system reboots. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by uploading malicious executables or scripts that will automatically execute when the target system starts up, enabling them to maintain long-term access without requiring continuous exploitation efforts. The threat landscape surrounding this vulnerability demonstrates how path traversal flaws in web applications can be weaponized to achieve system compromise, particularly in environments where web servers are configured to allow file uploads to sensitive system directories. Organizations running Easy File Sharing Web Server 3.2 are particularly vulnerable to this attack vector as the default configuration often permits file uploads to system-critical locations without adequate access controls or path validation. The remediation strategy for this vulnerability requires immediate implementation of proper input validation, strict path sanitization, and restrictive file upload policies that prevent uploads to system directories. Security measures should include disabling automatic execution of uploaded files, implementing robust access controls for upload directories, and applying regular security updates to address known vulnerabilities in web server software. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring of file upload activities can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the importance of secure coding practices in web applications, particularly regarding file handling and path validation, as similar flaws continue to be discovered in various web server implementations across different platforms and technologies.