CVE-2010-2269 in Rock Web Server
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in loadstatic.cgi in Accoria Web Server (aka Rock Web Server) 1.4.7 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the name parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2269 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Accoria Web Server version 1.4.7, also known as Rock Web Server. This vulnerability specifically affects the loadstatic.cgi script which processes file requests through the name parameter. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from accessing files outside the intended directory structure. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious requests containing .. (dot dot) sequences in the name parameter to navigate beyond the web server's intended file access boundaries. The vulnerability 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. This weakness allows unauthorized access to sensitive files that should remain protected within the server's file system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple information disclosure. Remote attackers can leverage this directory traversal capability to access critical system files including configuration files, password databases, application source code, and other sensitive data that may contain authentication credentials, database connection strings, or application logic that could facilitate further exploitation. The vulnerability enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially gain insights into the server's internal structure, which can be used for privilege escalation or as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely without requiring any authentication or prior access to the system, making it an attractive target for automated scanning tools and malicious actors seeking to compromise web servers.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a classic example of how insufficient input validation can lead to severe consequences in web application security. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1083 - File and Directory Discovery, as attackers can systematically explore the file system to identify valuable targets. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of implementing proper input sanitization, using secure coding practices, and enforcing strict file access controls. Organizations running Accoria Web Server 1.4.7 should immediately implement mitigations including patching to the latest version, implementing web application firewalls, restricting access to sensitive files, and conducting thorough security audits of all web server components. Additionally, defensive measures should include monitoring for suspicious file access patterns and implementing principle of least privilege access controls to minimize the potential damage from such vulnerabilities. The vulnerability underscores the critical need for regular security assessments and timely patch management to prevent exploitation of known weaknesses in web server software.