CVE-2006-4550 in Feedsplitter
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in CHXO Feedsplitter 2006-01-21 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary XML files via .. (dot dot) sequences in the format parameter with a leading ".", which bypasses a security check.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4550 represents a directory traversal flaw within the CHXO Feedsplitter software version dated 2006-01-21. This security weakness specifically affects the application's handling of XML file processing and demonstrates a classic path traversal attack vector that has been prevalent in web applications for decades. The vulnerability resides in how the software validates user input parameters, particularly the format parameter that controls XML file processing operations.
The technical implementation of this flaw allows remote attackers to exploit a specific input validation bypass mechanism. When an attacker manipulates the format parameter by incorporating dot-dot sequences with a leading period, the application fails to properly sanitize this input before processing. This particular combination of .. (dot dot) sequences with a leading period effectively circumvents existing security checks that were presumably designed to prevent directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the software's parameter handling code.
From an operational perspective, this directory traversal vulnerability poses significant risks to systems running the affected CHXO Feedsplitter version. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to access arbitrary XML files stored on the server, potentially including sensitive configuration files, user data, or application logic files. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as attackers may be able to retrieve files that contain database connection strings, user credentials, or other sensitive information that could facilitate further compromise of the affected system. 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.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates characteristics consistent with attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of "Path Traversal." The attack vector leverages the software's failure to properly validate input parameters, allowing an attacker to manipulate file paths and access unintended resources. This particular implementation bypasses security controls through the specific manipulation of the format parameter, making it particularly concerning as it can be executed without requiring authentication or specialized knowledge of the underlying system structure.
Security mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures. The most effective remediation involves ensuring that all user-supplied input parameters are thoroughly validated before being processed, particularly parameters that influence file operations or path resolution. Implementing strict parameter validation that rejects or normalizes input containing sequences such as .. or . characters in path-related parameters would prevent this attack vector. Additionally, applying the principle of least privilege to file system access and implementing proper access controls would limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls or similar protective measures to detect and block suspicious parameter values before they can be processed by the vulnerable application.