CVE-2007-0412 in WebLogic Server
Summary
by MITRE
BEA WebLogic Server 6.1 through 6.1 SP7, 7.0 through 7.0 SP7, and 8.1 through 8.1 SP5 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files inside the class-path property via .ear or exploded .ear files that use the manifest class-path property to point to utility jar files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/16/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0412 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting BEA WebLogic Server versions 6.1 through 6.1 SP7, 7.0 through 7.0 SP7, and 8.1 through 8.1 SP5. This security weakness resides in the server's handling of Java archive files and their manifest class-path properties, creating an avenue for remote attackers to access sensitive files within the server's classpath. The vulnerability specifically exploits how the application server processes .ear files and exploded .ear directories, which are standard deployment formats for enterprise java applications. When these archive files contain manifest class-path entries pointing to utility jar files, the server's processing logic fails to properly validate or sanitize the referenced paths, allowing unauthorized file access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the WebLogic Server's deployment and class loading mechanisms. When processing .ear files, the server examines the manifest class-path entries to locate dependent jar files, but does not properly restrict the paths that can be referenced through these entries. This flaw enables attackers to craft malicious .ear files with specially constructed class-path entries that reference files outside the intended deployment boundaries. The vulnerability operates at the file system level, allowing attackers to traverse directory structures and access files that should remain protected within the server's classpath, potentially exposing sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or other confidential information. This issue falls under the CWE-22 category for improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-0412 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to access critical system resources and potentially escalate their privileges within the affected environment. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to read arbitrary files that may contain database connection strings, application configuration details, or other sensitive data that could be used for further exploitation. The vulnerability affects the core deployment functionality of WebLogic Server, making it particularly dangerous as it operates at the application level where attackers can potentially access the underlying file system. This weakness can be exploited without authentication, making it especially severe for systems that are exposed to untrusted networks. The attack surface includes not only the application server itself but also any sensitive files that may be accessible through the classpath, potentially compromising the entire deployment environment.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided patches and updates that address the directory traversal issue in WebLogic Server versions. System administrators should also consider restricting the deployment of .ear files from untrusted sources and implementing proper access controls on the server's file system. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit access to WebLogic Server instances, particularly those that are exposed to public networks. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious deployment activities or attempts to access system files through the class-path mechanism. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through scripting and T1566 for initial access through web application attacks, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the threat. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be performed to ensure that all WebLogic Server instances are properly patched and that deployment practices follow secure configuration guidelines to prevent exploitation of similar path traversal vulnerabilities.