CVE-2008-5116 in Java System Identity Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in idm/includes/helpServer.jsp in Sun Java System Identity Manager 6.0 through 6.0 SP4, 7.0, and 7.1 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files in the filesystem of the IDM server via directory traversal sequences in the ext parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/03/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5116 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Sun Java System Identity Manager versions 6.0 through 6.0 SP4 and versions 7.0 and 7.1. This security weakness exists in the helpServer.jsp component located within the idm/includes directory structure of the affected software. The vulnerability specifically affects the handling of user input through the ext parameter, which processes directory traversal sequences without proper validation or sanitization. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious requests that include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ to navigate outside the intended directory boundaries and access arbitrary files on the server filesystem. This flaw falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables remote attackers to access sensitive files that should normally be restricted to authorized users only. The impact extends beyond simple file reading capabilities as attackers can potentially access configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other sensitive data stored on the same server hosting the Identity Manager application. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and directly access the underlying filesystem, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector requires no special privileges or authentication to initiate the exploit, making it highly dangerous in environments where the Identity Manager is accessible from untrusted networks. According to the ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Social Engineering) as attackers may use this weakness to gather intelligence about the target system before launching more sophisticated attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5116 extends far beyond the immediate file access capabilities. Organizations running affected versions of Sun Java System Identity Manager face significant risks including data breaches, unauthorized access to user credentials, and potential system compromise. The vulnerability affects identity management systems that are often critical infrastructure components, making the potential damage substantial. Attackers could exploit this weakness to gain access to user account information, authentication tokens, and other sensitive data that the Identity Manager is designed to protect. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk to compliance requirements, as organizations may be unable to demonstrate proper protection of sensitive information. The long-term implications include potential regulatory penalties, loss of customer trust, and increased security audit costs. Security teams must consider this vulnerability as part of their broader threat landscape assessment, as it can serve as a stepping stone for more advanced attacks targeting the broader network infrastructure. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through vendor patches, firewall rules to restrict access to the vulnerable component, and comprehensive security monitoring to detect exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application development, as these fundamental security practices could have prevented the directory traversal condition from occurring.