CVE-2008-2120 in Java System Web Server
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in Sun Java System Application Server 7 2004Q2 before Update 6, Web Server 6.1 before SP8, and Web Server 7.0 before Update 1 allows remote attackers to obtain source code of JSP files via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-2120 represents a critical information disclosure flaw affecting multiple Sun Microsystems server products including the Java System Application Server 7 2004Q2 and various Web Server versions. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of information exposure issues that can severely compromise system security by allowing unauthorized access to sensitive source code materials. The unspecified nature of the attack vectors suggests that the flaw could be exploited through multiple pathways within the affected software ecosystems, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on these legacy systems.
The technical flaw manifests as an insufficient access control mechanism that permits remote attackers to retrieve the source code of java server pages without proper authentication or authorization. This vulnerability specifically targets JSP (Java Server Pages) files which are integral components of web applications that contain both HTML and java code. The exposure of source code represents a significant security risk because it reveals implementation details, business logic, and potentially sensitive information that could be leveraged for further exploitation. The vulnerability exists in the server's handling of requests for JSP resources, where proper input validation and access controls are missing or inadequately implemented.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates substantial risk for organizations running affected Sun Microsystems products. The disclosure of JSP source code provides attackers with detailed knowledge of application architecture, database connection strings, business logic implementations, and potentially hardcoded credentials. This information can be used to craft more sophisticated attacks targeting other vulnerabilities within the same application or system. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require physical access or local privileges, making it particularly dangerous as attackers can target systems from anywhere on the network. Organizations may face compliance violations, intellectual property theft, and potential system compromise when this vulnerability is exploited.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2008-2120 involves immediate application of vendor patches and updates to the affected Sun Microsystems products. Organizations should prioritize updating to the latest available versions of Java System Application Server 7 Update 6 and Web Server 6.1 SP8, as well as Web Server 7.0 Update 1. Additionally, implementing network segmentation, firewall rules, and access control lists can help reduce the attack surface and limit potential exploitation. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual requests for JSP resources, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-200 (Information Exposure) and represents a typical example of how inadequate access control mechanisms can lead to source code disclosure. The attack pattern follows common tactics used in the information gathering phase of cyber attacks, often categorized under ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing for Information) when used in conjunction with other reconnaissance activities.