CVE-2007-2486 in Motobit
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in download.asp in Motobit 1.3 and 1.5 (aka PStruh-CZ) allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the File parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2486 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the Motobit 1.3 and 1.5 web applications, specifically within the download.asp component. This issue affects the PStruh-CZ software suite and demonstrates a fundamental failure in input validation that enables unauthorized file access. The vulnerability resides in how the application processes the File parameter, which is used to specify files for download operations. When attackers submit malicious input containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate these inputs before processing them. This weakness allows adversaries to navigate beyond the intended directory structure and access files that should remain restricted, potentially exposing sensitive system information, configuration files, or user data. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the file system level, bypassing normal application security controls and access restrictions that would typically prevent such unauthorized access patterns.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes directory traversal attacks as a common weakness in software security. The attack vector specifically exploits the lack of proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms within the download.asp script. When the application receives a File parameter containing traversal sequences, it processes these inputs without adequate restrictions, allowing the path traversal to occur. The vulnerability demonstrates how insufficient validation of user-supplied data can lead to arbitrary file access, particularly in applications that handle file operations. This flaw operates under the principle that the application should not trust any input from external sources and must validate all parameters before using them in file system operations. The vulnerability is classified as a remote attack vector since it can be exploited over the network without requiring local access to the system. The attack succeeds because the application does not implement proper path validation, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths through simple directory traversal sequences that are typically blocked by operating system security mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable attackers to access sensitive files that may contain database credentials, application configuration details, or other confidential information. The consequences include potential data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to restricted resources. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to retrieve system configuration files, database connection strings, or even executable code that could be used for further exploitation. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise if attackers can access critical system files or application code. Organizations using affected versions of Motobit software face significant security risks, particularly in environments where the application is exposed to untrusted networks or users. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in production environments where proper access controls and input validation may not be in place. The impact is further compounded by the fact that this vulnerability existed in widely deployed software versions, increasing the potential attack surface and exposure time.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the download.asp component. Organizations should immediately patch or upgrade to versions that address this directory traversal vulnerability, as no effective workarounds exist for the flaw itself. The recommended approach involves implementing strict input validation that rejects or removes directory traversal sequences from user-supplied parameters before they are processed. This includes implementing proper path validation that ensures all file access operations occur within designated safe directories. Security measures should include restricting file access to specific directories, implementing proper access controls, and ensuring that all user inputs are properly sanitized before processing. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block directory traversal attempts, as well as regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the implemented fixes do not introduce new functionality issues while effectively addressing the directory traversal vulnerability. Additionally, organizations should establish secure coding practices that prevent similar issues in future development cycles, particularly emphasizing the importance of input validation and proper file access controls. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of validating all user inputs and implementing proper security controls in web applications to prevent unauthorized access to system resources and sensitive data.