CVE-2007-6314 in Barracudadrive Web Server Home Server
Summary
by MITRE
BarracudaDrive Web Server before 3.8 allows remote attackers to read the source code for web scripts by appending a (1) + (plus), (2) . (dot), or (3) %80 and similar characters to the file name in the URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-6314 affects the BarracudaDrive Web Server version 3.7 and earlier, representing a critical information disclosure flaw that stems from inadequate input validation and path traversal mechanisms. This weakness enables remote attackers to access sensitive source code files through manipulation of URL parameters, fundamentally compromising the confidentiality of web application assets. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the web server processes file names that contain certain special characters including the plus sign, dot, or percent-encoded characters such as %80, which are typically used to navigate file system paths or encode URL components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the web server's failure to properly sanitize and validate file name parameters in HTTP requests. When a user appends characters like +, ., or %80 to a file name within the URL, the server incorrectly interprets these inputs, potentially allowing directory traversal or file access that bypasses normal security restrictions. This behavior aligns with common path traversal vulnerabilities classified under CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal attacks. The vulnerability essentially allows attackers to manipulate the web server's file resolution process, enabling them to access files that should remain protected within the server's file system hierarchy.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with access to source code that may contain sensitive implementation details, database connection strings, configuration parameters, or other proprietary code elements. This exposure creates opportunities for attackers to understand the application architecture, identify additional vulnerabilities, and potentially escalate their attacks through more sophisticated exploitation techniques. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk to compliance and regulatory requirements, as it may violate standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten, specifically addressing sensitive data exposure and improper error handling. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1083 technique for discovery of files and directories, as it enables reconnaissance activities that reveal system internals.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to BarracudaDrive Web Server version 3.8 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the path traversal issue. Additional protective measures include implementing proper input validation at the web server level, configuring access controls to restrict file system access, and deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious URL patterns containing the problematic characters. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file access patterns and URL manipulation attempts that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input sanitization, emphasizing that even minor oversights in parameter handling can create significant security risks. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications and systems, as this type of path traversal flaw is commonly found in various web server implementations and represents a persistent threat in web application security.