CVE-2006-7186 in WebAPP
Summary
by MITRE
cgi-lib/subs.pl in web-app.net WebAPP before 0.9.9.3.5 allows attackers to open list files in "profile and other functions," a different vulnerability than CVE-2005-0927.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-7186 affects the web-app.net WebAPP software version 0.9.9.3.5 and earlier, specifically within the cgi-lib/subs.pl component. This issue represents a file inclusion vulnerability that enables remote attackers to access sensitive files through the application's profile and other functional modules. The flaw is distinct from CVE-2005-0927, indicating a separate attack vector within the same software ecosystem. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and file handling mechanisms within the web application's backend scripting components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the cgi-lib/subs.pl script failing to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file operations. When users interact with profile functions or other application features, the system processes parameters that should be validated before being used to construct file paths or determine which files to access. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input that manipulates the script into opening unintended files on the server. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-22, known as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')", which is classified as a critical security weakness in software development practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive system files that could contain database credentials, configuration settings, or other confidential data. The ability to read arbitrary files through profile functions suggests that the vulnerability may allow attackers to access not only system files but potentially application-specific data files, user information, or even source code repositories. This could lead to further exploitation opportunities including privilege escalation, data theft, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, "File and Directory Discovery", which describes methods used by adversaries to enumerate files and directories on compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the cgi-lib/subs.pl script. The recommended approach includes implementing strict parameter validation that prevents path traversal sequences such as "../" or similar constructs from being processed. Organizations should also consider implementing a whitelist approach for file access operations, where only predefined, legitimate file paths are permitted. Additionally, the web application should be updated to a patched version of WebAPP that addresses this specific vulnerability. System administrators should conduct comprehensive security audits to identify other potential file inclusion vulnerabilities within the application's codebase and ensure proper access controls are implemented to limit the damage potential of such exploits. The remediation efforts should align with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing file inclusion vulnerabilities in web applications.