CVE-2007-2353 in Axis
Summary
by MITRE
Apache Axis 1.0 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information by requesting a non-existent WSDL file, which reveals the installation path in the resulting exception message.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/25/2025
Apache Axis 1.0 contains a critical information disclosure vulnerability that exposes system installation paths through improper error handling mechanisms. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-200 category, which specifically addresses improper error handling that leads to information exposure. The flaw occurs when the web services framework processes requests for non-existent WSDL files, triggering exception messages that inadvertently reveal the underlying file system structure where Apache Axis is installed. This type of vulnerability represents a classic example of insecure error handling that violates fundamental security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten. The vulnerability exists because the system does not properly sanitize error messages before returning them to clients, allowing attackers to extract sensitive directory paths that could aid in subsequent exploitation attempts. Attackers can leverage this information to understand the server architecture and potentially identify other vulnerabilities or misconfigurations within the system. The exposure of installation paths provides attackers with valuable reconnaissance data that can be used to craft more sophisticated attacks, including directory traversal attempts or exploitation of known vulnerabilities associated with specific software versions in those locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates a foundation for more advanced attack vectors within the ATT&CK framework's reconnaissance phase. When an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they gain knowledge about the target system's file structure, which can be combined with other reconnaissance techniques to identify potential entry points. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality aspect of the CIA triad by exposing system configuration details that should remain hidden from external parties. This type of information leakage can occur in environments where security through obscurity is relied upon, making the system more vulnerable to targeted attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates a lack of proper input validation and error handling practices that are fundamental to secure software development. Organizations using Apache Axis 1.0 should consider implementing comprehensive logging and monitoring solutions to detect such attempts, as well as ensuring that all error messages are properly sanitized before being returned to client applications. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to security standards such as those defined in the ISO/IEC 27001 framework, which emphasizes the need for proper error handling and information protection.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include implementing proper error handling mechanisms that prevent sensitive system information from being exposed in error messages. Organizations should configure their Apache Axis installations to use generic error messages that do not reveal installation paths or system details. The implementation of centralized logging and monitoring systems can help detect and alert on attempts to access non-existent WSDL files, providing visibility into potential exploitation attempts. Security patches and updates should be applied immediately, as this vulnerability has been addressed in later versions of the Apache Axis framework. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls that can filter out suspicious requests targeting non-existent resources, and configuring the application server to suppress detailed error information in production environments. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit the exposure of web services to unauthorized users. The vulnerability also underscores the need for regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar information disclosure issues within the application stack, ensuring that all components follow secure coding practices and maintain appropriate security configurations.