CVE-2008-0338 in MiniWeb HTTP Server
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the mwGetLocalFileName function in http.c in MiniWeb HTTP Server 0.8.19 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files and list arbitrary directories via a (1) .%2e (partially encoded dot dot) or (2) %2e%2e (encoded dot dot) in the URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0338 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the MiniWeb HTTP Server version 0.8.19, specifically within the mwGetLocalFileName function located in the http.c module. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path normalization mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied URI parameters before processing them as file system paths. The flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate the server's file access behavior by exploiting partially and fully encoded directory traversal sequences, creating a significant security risk for systems running this vulnerable software.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the HTTP server processes incoming requests containing specially crafted URI sequences such as .%2e or %2e%2e which represent encoded directory traversal attempts. These sequences bypass normal path resolution mechanisms and allow attackers to navigate outside the intended document root directory. The mwGetLocalFileName function fails to properly normalize or validate these paths, enabling the server to resolve and access files outside the designated web root, potentially exposing sensitive system files, configuration data, or user information. This issue directly maps to CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a fundamental weakness in path handling that enables unauthorized file access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to enumerate directory structures and access arbitrary files on the server. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to system files, configuration databases, application source code, or user data that should remain protected. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without authentication, allowing attackers to systematically explore the file system and identify valuable targets. This capability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 - File and Directory Discovery, which describes methods adversaries use to gather information about file systems and directories. The vulnerability also supports broader attack patterns including T1566 - Phishing, as attackers can use the information gathered to craft more sophisticated social engineering campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and path normalization measures within the affected HTTP server software. System administrators should apply the latest security patches provided by the software vendor, as this vulnerability was likely addressed in subsequent releases. Additionally, implementing proper path validation that rejects or normalizes directory traversal sequences before they are processed as file paths will prevent exploitation. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can also provide additional defense-in-depth measures by detecting and blocking malicious URI sequences. Organizations should also conduct thorough security assessments of their web server configurations, implement proper access controls, and establish monitoring procedures to detect anomalous file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and path handling in web server implementations, as highlighted in industry best practices for secure coding and the OWASP Top Ten security risks.