CVE-2008-1000 in Mac OS X
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in ContentServer.py in the Wiki Server in Apple Mac OS X 10.5.2 (aka Leopard) allows remote authenticated users to write arbitrary files via ".." sequences in file attachments.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-1000 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Apple Mac OS X 10.5.2's Wiki Server component, specifically in the ContentServer.py script. This issue affects the operating system's web-based wiki functionality that was introduced in Leopard and allows authenticated remote attackers to exploit a weakness in file path handling during attachment processing. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path normalization mechanisms within the server-side script, creating a scenario where malicious users can manipulate file paths through the use of dot-dot sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the ContentServer.py script failing to properly sanitize or validate file paths when processing user-uploaded attachments. When an authenticated user submits a file attachment containing ".." sequences in the filename or path components, the server does not adequately restrict these path traversal elements, allowing the attacker to navigate outside of the intended directory structure. This flaw operates at the application layer and specifically targets the file system operations within the Wiki Server's attachment handling mechanism, enabling attackers to write files to arbitrary locations on the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows authenticated users to potentially overwrite critical system files, inject malicious content, or create backdoor access points within the operating system. Attackers could leverage this weakness to compromise the integrity of the wiki server, potentially escalating privileges or gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data stored within the system. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, as it enables unauthorized file system modifications that could lead to complete system compromise. This issue particularly impacts environments where the Mac OS X Wiki Server is deployed and used by multiple authenticated users who may not be fully trusted.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers command and scripting interpreter for file and directory permissions manipulation, as the attacker can manipulate file system permissions through directory traversal. Additionally, the vulnerability demonstrates characteristics of T1546.001, which involves modifying or replacing system binaries through path manipulation, since the attacker could potentially overwrite system files in accessible locations. Organizations should implement proper input validation, path normalization, and access controls to prevent such vulnerabilities from being exploited. The recommended mitigations include applying Apple's security patches, implementing proper file path validation mechanisms, restricting file attachment capabilities, and conducting regular security assessments of web applications. System administrators should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual file system activity that could indicate exploitation attempts.