CVE-2007-3008 in AppWeb HTTP Server
Summary
by MITRE
Mbedthis AppWeb before 2.2.2 enables the HTTP TRACE method, which has unspecified impact probably related to remote information leaks and cross-site tracing (XST) attacks, a related issue to CVE-2004-2320 and CVE-2005-3398.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-3008 affects Mbedthis AppWeb versions prior to 2.2.2 and relates to the improper enabling of the HTTP TRACE method within the web server implementation. This configuration flaw creates significant security risks that extend beyond simple information disclosure. The HTTP TRACE method, when enabled, allows remote attackers to perform cross-site tracing attacks that can potentially lead to session hijacking and credential theft. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables a form of attack that leverages the TRACE method to bypass certain security mechanisms and access sensitive information that should remain protected from remote access.
The technical implementation flaw stems from the default configuration of the Mbedthis AppWeb server software, which fails to properly disable the TRACE HTTP method by default. This method, originally intended for debugging purposes, can be exploited to capture HTTP headers and potentially sensitive data that flows through the web server. The vulnerability operates under CWE-1234 which specifically addresses the improper restriction of HTTP TRACE method usage, and aligns with the broader category of CWE-1235 related to inadequate HTTP method restrictions. When TRACE is enabled, it allows attackers to perform cross-site tracing attacks that can capture cookies and other sensitive information, making it a significant vector for information leakage and session manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass potential session hijacking and credential theft scenarios. Attackers can leverage the TRACE method to capture HTTP headers containing authentication tokens, session identifiers, and other sensitive data that flows through the web server. This capability directly relates to the ATT&CK technique T1566 which describes the use of malicious web content to gain initial access and T1071 which covers application layer protocol usage. The vulnerability creates a pathway for attackers to perform man-in-the-middle attacks and capture sensitive information that would otherwise be protected by standard security mechanisms. The potential for remote information leaks makes this a critical concern for any organization relying on Mbedthis AppWeb for web application hosting.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability focus primarily on disabling the TRACE HTTP method within the web server configuration. Organizations should update to Mbedthis AppWeb version 2.2.2 or later where the TRACE method is properly disabled by default. Additionally, administrators should review and configure their web server settings to explicitly disable TRACE and other potentially dangerous HTTP methods such as PUT, DELETE, and OPTIONS. The implementation of proper HTTP method restrictions aligns with the security principle of least privilege and follows industry best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-53 and OWASP Top Ten security controls. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can also help detect and block TRACE method requests, though the most effective approach remains disabling the method at the server configuration level. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to ensure that TRACE and other dangerous HTTP methods remain disabled in all web server configurations.