CVE-2006-6345 in Internet Graphics Server
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in SAP Internet Graphics Service (IGS) 6.40 Patchlevel 16 and earlier, and 7.00 Patchlevel 6 and earlier, allows remote attackers to delete arbitrary files via directory traversal sequences in an HTTP request. NOTE: This information is based upon an initial disclosure. Details will be updated after the grace period has ended. This issue is different from CVE-2006-4133 and CVE-2006-4134.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-6345 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within SAP Internet Graphics Service IGS versions 6.40 Patchlevel 16 and earlier, as well as 7.00 Patchlevel 6 and earlier. This security weakness resides in the web server component responsible for handling graphics requests, specifically allowing malicious actors to manipulate file system access through carefully crafted HTTP requests. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path sanitization mechanisms within the IGS service, creating an avenue for attackers to bypass normal access controls and execute unauthorized file operations. The affected systems process user-supplied data without proper validation, enabling attackers to navigate beyond intended directories and access restricted file system locations. This flaw manifests when the service fails to properly sanitize user input containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, which allows attackers to specify arbitrary file paths for operations. The security implications are severe as this vulnerability enables remote attackers to delete files from the system, potentially compromising system integrity and availability. The vulnerability is classified as a directory traversal attack pattern that aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. This weakness falls under the broader category of path traversal vulnerabilities that have been consistently identified as high-risk security flaws in web applications and services.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file deletion capabilities to encompass potential system compromise and data destruction. Attackers leveraging this flaw can target critical system files, configuration data, or application resources, leading to service disruption, data loss, or even complete system compromise. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to the system, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in networked environments where SAP IGS services are exposed to external networks. The vulnerability affects organizations running legacy SAP systems where patch management may be delayed or incomplete, creating extended windows of exposure. The issue is distinct from related vulnerabilities CVE-2006-4133 and CVE-2006-4134, indicating that this represents a separate code path or implementation flaw within the IGS service. Organizations utilizing SAP IGS for serving graphics content, reports, or other visual elements are at risk, particularly those with exposed web services or insufficient network segmentation. The vulnerability can be exploited through standard HTTP requests, making it accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise and requiring no special tools beyond basic web browsing capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-6345 should prioritize immediate patching of affected SAP IGS versions to the latest available security updates. Organizations must implement network segmentation to restrict access to SAP IGS services, ensuring that these components are not directly exposed to untrusted networks or the internet. Input validation controls should be enhanced at the application level to properly sanitize all user-supplied data and reject requests containing suspicious path traversal sequences. Access controls and authentication mechanisms must be strengthened to limit the scope of operations that can be performed through the IGS service. Network monitoring and intrusion detection systems should be configured to detect and alert on suspicious HTTP requests containing directory traversal patterns. Security administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of affected SAP IGS installations within their environment. The implementation of web application firewalls can provide additional protection layers against exploitation attempts, while regular security audits should verify that proper access controls are maintained. Organizations should also establish incident response procedures specifically addressing directory traversal vulnerabilities and ensure that system administrators are trained to recognize and respond to potential exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the technique of "Path Traversal" (T1083) and "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" (T1068), emphasizing the need for layered defense mechanisms. Regular patch management processes should be implemented to ensure timely deployment of SAP security patches and updates, preventing similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in the organization's infrastructure.