CVE-2007-5685 in shttp
Summary
by MITRE
The safe_path function in shttp before 0.0.5 allows remote attackers to conduct directory traversal attacks and read files via a combination of ".." and sub-directory specifiers that resolve to a pathname that is at or below the same level as the web document root, but in a different part of the directory tree.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/18/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-5685 affects the shttp web server software version 0.0.4 and earlier, specifically targeting the safe_path function implementation. This flaw represents a classic directory traversal vulnerability that enables remote attackers to access files outside the intended web document root directory. The vulnerability arises from inadequate input validation and path resolution mechanisms within the server's file access controls, creating a security boundary violation that undermines the fundamental principle of web server isolation. The issue is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to navigate the file system beyond the designated web root, potentially accessing sensitive system files, configuration data, or other restricted resources that should remain protected from web-based access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on manipulating URL paths through carefully crafted combinations of parent directory references ".." and subdirectory specifiers. When an attacker constructs a malicious URL containing these sequences, the vulnerable safe_path function fails to properly validate or normalize the resulting path, allowing the traversal to occur. The vulnerability specifically targets paths that resolve to directories at or below the same level as the web document root but located in different branches of the directory tree. This means attackers can access files that exist in sibling directories relative to the web root, effectively bypassing the intended security boundaries. The flaw demonstrates poor input sanitization practices and inadequate path resolution logic that should have prevented such traversal attempts. According to CWE-22, this vulnerability maps directly to the weakness of improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, which is a well-documented pattern in web application security.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates a potential gateway for more sophisticated attacks within the compromised system. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access system configuration files, user data, application source code, or other sensitive information that may contain credentials, database connection strings, or other exploitable data. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require local access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web servers. Organizations running vulnerable versions of shttp face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations if sensitive information is exposed through this vulnerability. The attack vector is straightforward and reliable, making it a preferred target for automated scanning tools and malicious actors seeking to exploit web server weaknesses.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5685 should prioritize immediate software updates to version 0.0.5 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the directory traversal vulnerability. System administrators should also implement additional security controls including input validation at multiple layers, proper path normalization routines, and strict access control mechanisms. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional monitoring and protection against exploitation attempts. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments to identify any other vulnerable applications or services that might be susceptible to similar directory traversal attacks, particularly legacy systems that may not receive regular updates. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) techniques, as attackers may use directory traversal to discover system files and potentially escalate privileges. Regular security audits, proper configuration management, and adherence to secure coding practices should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in future software releases, particularly focusing on proper input validation and path resolution mechanisms that align with industry standards such as those defined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.