CVE-2009-0645 in Jaws
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in Jaws 0.8.8 allows remote authenticated users to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the (1) language, (2) Introduction_complete, and (3) use_log parameters, different vectors than CVE-2004-2445.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-0645 represents a directory traversal flaw within the Jaws 0.8.8 web application framework that affects the index.php file. This security weakness specifically targets three parameter vectors including language, Introduction_complete, and use_log which all accept user-supplied input containing dot-dot-slash sequences. The vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration classification of CWE-22, which details improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. Unlike CVE-2004-2445 which addressed similar issues in different contexts, this particular vulnerability demonstrates how authentication requirements do not prevent exploitation of path traversal flaws when input validation is insufficient. The attack vector requires remote authenticated users, meaning that an attacker must first establish valid credentials to the system before attempting to exploit this weakness, though this authentication requirement does not eliminate the severity of the vulnerability.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when the application processes user input without proper sanitization or validation of the pathname components. When the language, Introduction_complete, or use_log parameters receive input containing sequences such as ../ or ..\, the application fails to properly validate these inputs against a whitelist of acceptable values or normalize the pathnames before processing. This allows an attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access files that should remain restricted, potentially including sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or other system resources. The vulnerability directly impacts the application's input validation mechanisms and demonstrates poor secure coding practices where user-supplied data is not properly filtered or escaped before being used in file system operations.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to systems running Jaws 0.8.8 as authenticated attackers can potentially access confidential information that may include system configuration details, database connection strings, or other sensitive data that could lead to further compromise. The impact extends beyond simple file reading to potential system reconnaissance and privilege escalation opportunities. Attackers could leverage this weakness to discover additional vulnerabilities within the application or system, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability also affects the principle of least privilege since authenticated users can access resources they should not normally be able to reach. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving privilege escalation and credential access, specifically targeting the T1078 and T1566 sub-techniques that involve legitimate credentials and valid accounts.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-0645 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization techniques. Organizations should immediately apply patches or updates from the Jaws development team to address this vulnerability. Implementing proper parameter validation that rejects or normalizes path traversal sequences is essential. The application should employ a whitelist approach for acceptable values in the affected parameters rather than relying on blacklisting patterns. Additionally, restricting file access permissions and implementing proper access controls can help minimize the impact if exploitation occurs. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems that can detect and block suspicious path traversal attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews focusing on input validation practices should be conducted to prevent similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding guidelines and implementing defense-in-depth strategies that protect against multiple attack vectors simultaneously.