CVE-2007-6514 in HTTP Server
Summary
by MITRE
Apache HTTP Server, when running on Linux with a document root on a Windows share mounted using smbfs, allows remote attackers to obtain unprocessed content such as source files for .php programs via a trailing "\" (backslash), which is not handled by the intended AddType directive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-6514 represents a critical security flaw in the Apache HTTP Server implementation when operating in specific cross-platform environments. This issue manifests when Apache runs on Linux systems with document roots located on Windows shares mounted via smbfs protocol. The fundamental problem lies in the improper handling of trailing backslash characters in file paths, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to sensitive server content. The vulnerability specifically exploits the AddType directive's inability to properly process backslash characters, allowing attackers to bypass normal file access controls and retrieve unprocessed source code files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from how Apache processes file paths when they contain trailing backslash characters. When a request is made to a PHP file with a trailing backslash, the server fails to properly resolve the file path through its intended content type handling mechanisms. This occurs because the AddType directive, which is designed to associate file extensions with specific content types, does not correctly interpret backslash characters in the path resolution process. The smbfs filesystem mounting mechanism on Linux introduces additional complexity in path handling that exacerbates this issue, creating a scenario where the server processes the request through an unintended code path that exposes the raw source files.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to web application security and data confidentiality. Remote attackers can exploit this weakness to access PHP source code files, potentially exposing sensitive application logic, database connection strings, and other proprietary code elements. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as access to source code can enable attackers to identify additional vulnerabilities within the application, understand business logic implementations, and develop more sophisticated attack vectors. The vulnerability affects organizations running Apache servers in mixed operating system environments where Windows file shares are utilized, making it particularly relevant in enterprise settings with complex infrastructure deployments.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with several common weakness enumerations and attack patterns documented in cybersecurity frameworks. This issue relates to CWE-20 Improper Input Validation, as the server fails to properly validate and sanitize path inputs containing backslash characters. It also demonstrates characteristics of CWE-125 Out-of-bounds Read, where the improper path handling leads to unintended memory access patterns. From an attack methodology standpoint, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1566.001 Initial Access: Spearphishing Attachment, as attackers could potentially use this weakness to gain access to source code that might contain information useful for crafting more targeted attacks. The vulnerability also relates to T1083 File and Directory Discovery, as it enables attackers to enumerate and access files that should normally be protected.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including updating to patched versions of Apache HTTP Server, configuring proper access controls for mounted Windows shares, and implementing additional path validation mechanisms. The recommended approach involves ensuring that all file path processing includes proper backslash handling and that the AddType directive behavior is properly configured to prevent unintended path resolution. System administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring for unusual file access patterns and ensure that mounted Windows shares are properly secured with appropriate permissions. The most effective long-term solution requires updating to Apache versions that properly address this path handling issue and implementing comprehensive input validation across all file access operations in web applications.