CVE-2007-6322 in xml2owl
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in filedownload.php in xml2owl 0.1.1 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-6322 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the xml2owl 0.1.1 web application, specifically affecting the filedownload.php component. This weakness enables malicious actors to access arbitrary files on the server by exploiting improper input validation mechanisms. The vulnerability manifests when the application fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied file parameters, allowing attackers to manipulate the file path through directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot). The xml2owl tool is designed for converting xml data to owl format, typically used in semantic web applications and knowledge representation systems. This particular implementation suffers from a classic path traversal vulnerability that has been documented in numerous security advisories and represents a fundamental flaw in input validation and file access controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious file parameter containing directory traversal sequences to the filedownload.php endpoint. When the application processes this input without proper validation, it can be coerced into reading files from arbitrary locations on the server filesystem. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to implement proper input sanitization and path validation, allowing attackers to bypass intended access controls and potentially gain access to sensitive files such as configuration data, database credentials, application source code, or other system files that should remain protected. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can provide attackers with significant information gathering capabilities that may lead to further exploitation. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially access critical system files, application configuration, or even sensitive data stored on the server. The consequences may include data breaches, system compromise, or the exposure of sensitive information that could be used for additional attacks. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where the web application has access to files beyond its intended scope, as it could potentially lead to complete system compromise. The attack vector is straightforward and requires minimal technical expertise, making it a preferred target for both automated scanning tools and manual attackers. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers can use this weakness to gather system information or deliver malicious payloads through compromised file downloads.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6322 should focus on implementing robust input validation and proper file access controls. The most effective remediation involves implementing strict input validation that filters or rejects any input containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e. Applications should employ whitelisting approaches for file access, ensuring that only explicitly allowed files can be retrieved through the download functionality. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation ensures that the web application cannot access files outside of its designated directories. Security practitioners should also consider implementing proper logging and monitoring to detect unusual file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that include input validation, access control enforcement, and regular security assessments. Organizations should also ensure that legacy applications like xml2owl 0.1.1 are either updated to secure versions or properly isolated from critical systems to prevent exploitation.