CVE-2008-2403 in Java Active Server Pages
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in unspecified ASP applications in Sun Java Active Server Pages (ASP) Server before 4.0.3 allow remote attackers to read or delete arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the Path parameter to the MapPath method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2403 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Sun Java Active Server Pages (ASP) Server versions prior to 4.0.3. This vulnerability specifically affects ASP applications running on the Java platform and stems from inadequate input validation within the MapPath method implementation. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate file system access by exploiting the Path parameter through the use of directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) notation, which enables unauthorized access to files outside the intended application directory structure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an ASP application processes user-supplied input through the MapPath method without proper sanitization or validation of the Path parameter. When attackers submit malicious input containing directory traversal sequences, the server fails to properly resolve these paths, allowing the application to access files in parent directories or even system-level locations. This represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that violates the principle of least privilege and allows for arbitrary file read and delete operations. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-22 as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" when considering the broader attack surface.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to delete critical system files or access sensitive data. An attacker could potentially read configuration files containing database credentials, application secrets, or other sensitive information that could lead to further compromise of the system. The vulnerability also enables the execution of arbitrary code if attackers can upload malicious files to the server, as the directory traversal allows access to the file system where web applications are hosted. This creates a significant risk for web applications that store sensitive data or perform administrative functions, as the vulnerability could be leveraged to escalate privileges or gain persistence within the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2403 primarily involve upgrading to Sun Java Active Server Pages Server version 4.0.3 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the directory traversal flaw. Organizations should also implement input validation and sanitization measures at the application level, ensuring that all user-supplied input to the MapPath method is properly validated and filtered. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and restricting file system permissions can limit the damage that could result from successful exploitation. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious directory traversal patterns in web server logs, and network segmentation can help limit the potential impact of exploitation. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege when designing web applications that interact with the file system.