CVE-2006-2617 in WebHost Directory
Summary
by MITRE
(1) AlstraSoft Web Host Directory 1.2, aka (2) HyperStop WebHost Directory 1.2, allows remote attackers to obtain the installation path via an invalid entry in the Username field on the login page, which causes the path to be displayed in an SQL error. NOTE: this issue might be resultant from SQL injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2017
This vulnerability affects AlstraSoft Web Host Directory 1.2 and HyperStop WebHost Directory 1.2 web applications that are susceptible to information disclosure through improper error handling mechanisms. The flaw manifests when users submit malformed input through the Username field on the login page, triggering an SQL error message that inadvertently reveals the application's installation path. This represents a classic case of error-based information disclosure where system internals are exposed through unhandled database exceptions. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and error handling practices within the application's authentication mechanism, allowing attackers to manipulate the login form to extract sensitive path information from database error messages. This type of information disclosure can provide adversaries with critical system layout details that may facilitate subsequent exploitation attempts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly sanitize user input before processing it through database queries. When an invalid entry is submitted through the Username field, the application processes this input without adequate validation, resulting in an SQL query execution error. The error message generated by the database includes the full file path where the application is installed, effectively leaking system information to unauthorized users. This behavior aligns with CWE-209, which addresses the improper handling of exceptions and error messages that can lead to information disclosure. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it occurs during the authentication process, meaning that an attacker can exploit it even before establishing any legitimate session with the application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with crucial path information that can be leveraged for further exploitation. The leaked installation path may reveal directory structures, file locations, and potentially sensitive system configurations that could aid in crafting more sophisticated attacks. An attacker could use this information to understand the application's file system layout, identify potential backup files, or determine the operating system environment. This vulnerability demonstrates a weakness in the application's security architecture where error handling does not adequately protect system internals from exposure. The issue also represents a potential vector for SQL injection exploitation, as the application's response to malformed input suggests that it may be vulnerable to more serious database manipulation attacks, according to ATT&CK technique T1212 for Exploitation for Credential Access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper input validation and error handling mechanisms. The application should sanitize all user inputs, particularly those used in database queries, to prevent malformed entries from triggering database exceptions. Implementing generic error messages that do not reveal system information is essential, as outlined in CWE-117 guidelines for proper error handling. The application should also employ prepared statements or parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection while ensuring that error messages do not contain system path information. Additionally, access controls should be implemented to limit the exposure of database error information to authorized personnel only. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in the application's codebase, following security best practices established by industry standards and frameworks.