CVE-2010-3098 in Ftprush
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in IoRush Software FTP Rush 1.1.3 and possibly earlier allows remote FTP servers to overwrite arbitrary files via a "..\" (dot dot backslash) in a filename.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/07/2019
The directory traversal vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3098 affects IoRush Software FTP Rush version 1.1.3 and potentially earlier releases, presenting a critical security risk in file handling operations. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the FTP client's filename processing mechanism, specifically when handling backslash characters in filenames. The flaw allows malicious remote FTP servers to manipulate file paths and potentially overwrite arbitrary files on the local system where FTP Rush is installed. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the "..\" sequence commonly used in directory traversal attacks, exploiting the client's failure to properly sanitize or validate filename components that contain such path traversal sequences. This issue represents a direct violation of secure coding practices and demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the application's file system access controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the client-side file handling logic by crafting filenames that contain the "..\" sequence, which when processed by the FTP Rush application, can cause the client to interpret these sequences as commands to navigate up directory structures. When the application processes such filenames, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the input, allowing the traversal sequence to be interpreted as a legitimate path manipulation operation. This results in the application attempting to write files to locations outside the intended download directory, potentially overwriting system files, configuration files, or other sensitive data. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through malicious FTP server responses, making it particularly dangerous because users may unknowingly download files that trigger the traversal attack. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')", which is a well-documented weakness in software security that has been consistently exploited in various applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-3098 extends beyond simple file overwrites, as it can enable attackers to compromise the entire system through a series of coordinated attacks. An attacker controlling a malicious FTP server can craft specific filenames that, when downloaded, result in the overwrite of critical system files, configuration settings, or even executables that could lead to privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently download files from untrusted sources or where automated file transfers occur, as it can be exploited without user interaction once a malicious file is encountered. This attack vector can be amplified through social engineering tactics where users are tricked into downloading files from compromised servers, making the vulnerability particularly insidious. The attack pattern aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where malicious file operations can be used to execute arbitrary code or manipulate system state through file system access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention through software updates and patches provided by the vendor, as well as implementation of network-level controls to prevent access to potentially malicious FTP servers. Organizations should implement strict network segmentation and firewall rules to limit access to FTP services, particularly to prevent connections to untrusted servers. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of FTP Rush that properly validates and sanitizes filename inputs, ensuring that directory traversal sequences are rejected or properly handled. Additionally, system administrators should implement file integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized file modifications that could result from exploitation of this vulnerability. Security awareness training for users should emphasize the dangers of downloading files from untrusted sources and the importance of verifying file integrity before processing. The vulnerability also highlights the necessity of input validation and secure coding practices, particularly in applications that handle file system operations, as recommended by industry standards including the OWASP Top Ten and the CERT/CC Secure Coding Standards. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting solutions that can prevent execution of unauthorized file operations and provide additional defense-in-depth measures against similar vulnerabilities.