CVE-2006-2677 in SiteScape
Summary
by MITRE
SiteScape Forum 7.2 and possibly earlier stores the avf.rc configuraiton file under the web document root with insufficient access control, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive path information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/27/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-2677 affects SiteScape Forum version 7.2 and potentially earlier releases, representing a critical access control flaw that exposes sensitive system information to remote attackers. This issue stems from improper configuration of file permissions within the web document root directory, creating an avenue for unauthorized information disclosure. The avf.rc configuration file contains path information that is essential for system operation but should remain protected from public access. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental failure in secure configuration management practices, where sensitive files are inadvertently exposed to the entire internet without proper access restrictions.
The technical flaw manifests through the insecure placement of the avf.rc configuration file within the web server's document root directory structure. This misconfiguration allows attackers to directly access the file through standard web requests, bypassing normal access controls that should restrict such information to authorized personnel only. The insufficient access control mechanism fails to properly authenticate or authorize requests for sensitive configuration data, creating a path traversal vulnerability that falls under the broader category of information disclosure flaws. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it can provide attackers with critical system paths that may be leveraged for further exploitation attempts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the exposed path information can serve as a foundation for more sophisticated attacks. Attackers who obtain the sensitive path information can potentially use it to map the server's file structure, identify other vulnerable components, or craft targeted attacks against specific system locations. The disclosure of configuration paths may reveal database connection strings, file locations, or other system-specific details that could be exploited in subsequent attack phases. This vulnerability directly aligns with attack patterns documented in the attack mitigation framework, where initial reconnaissance through information disclosure often precedes more destructive operations.
Security professionals should address this vulnerability through immediate remediation of file permissions and proper configuration management practices. The recommended approach involves moving sensitive configuration files outside of the web document root and implementing proper access controls using web server configuration directives or file system permissions. Organizations should conduct comprehensive audits of their web application configurations to identify similar vulnerabilities across their infrastructure. This remediation effort should align with industry standards such as those outlined in the CWE catalog, specifically addressing CWE-276, which covers improper file permissions, and CWE-200, which covers information disclosure. The vulnerability also relates to ATT&CK techniques focused on reconnaissance and initial access, making it critical for defensive measures to address before attackers can leverage it for more serious exploits.