CVE-2008-1231 in JSPWiki
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Edit.jsp in JSPWiki 2.4.104 and 2.5.139 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local .jsp files, and obtain sensitive information, via a .. (dot dot) in the editor parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/17/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1231 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within JSPWiki version 2.4.104 and 2.5.139, specifically affecting the Edit.jsp component. This weakness enables remote attackers to manipulate the editor parameter through directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation, fundamentally compromising the application's file access controls. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict file path navigation, allowing malicious actors to bypass intended access restrictions and gain unauthorized access to local system resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the editor parameter in the Edit.jsp script, where attackers can inject directory traversal sequences to navigate to arbitrary local .jsp files within the application's file system. This flaw 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 vulnerability enables attackers to include and execute arbitrary local .jsp files, effectively granting them the ability to run malicious code on the target server with the privileges of the web application. Additionally, the flaw allows for sensitive information disclosure, as attackers can traverse the file system to access confidential data that should remain protected.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations utilizing JSPWiki versions 2.4.104 and 2.5.139, as it provides attackers with a direct pathway to execute arbitrary code and access sensitive information. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the ability to execute local .jsp files means that attackers can potentially deploy web shells, exfiltrate data, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001, which covers the use of malicious file content to gain initial access, and T1059.007, which involves the execution of scripts through web applications. The exploitation capability of this vulnerability makes it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged for both reconnaissance and active exploitation phases of an attack lifecycle.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1231 must focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization measures within the JSPWiki application. Organizations should immediately upgrade to patched versions of JSPWiki that address this directory traversal vulnerability, as the vendor has released updates to resolve this security issue. Additionally, implementing proper parameter validation that filters out directory traversal sequences and restricting file access permissions can significantly reduce the attack surface. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls can also provide additional protection by detecting and blocking malicious traversal attempts. The implementation of principle of least privilege for web application users and regular security auditing of application components will further enhance the overall security posture against similar vulnerabilities.