CVE-2011-4367 in MyFaces
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in MyFaces JavaServer Faces (JSF) in Apache MyFaces Core 2.0.x before 2.0.12 and 2.1.x before 2.1.6 allow remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the (1) ln parameter to faces/javax.faces.resource/web.xml or (2) the PATH_INFO to faces/javax.faces.resource/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2011-4367 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting Apache MyFaces Core JavaServer Faces implementations. This security weakness resides in the resource handling mechanism of the JSF framework, specifically within the faces/javax.faces.resource component that manages static resources. The vulnerability impacts versions 2.0.x prior to 2.0.12 and 2.1.x prior to 2.1.6, creating a significant attack surface for remote threat actors seeking unauthorized access to sensitive system files.
The technical exploitation occurs through manipulation of URL parameters that control resource resolution within the JSF framework. Attackers can leverage directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation in either the ln parameter targeting faces/javax.faces.resource/web.xml or through the PATH_INFO parameter directing to the same resource endpoint. This allows malicious actors to navigate beyond the intended resource boundaries and access arbitrary files on the server filesystem. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path sanitization within the resource resolution logic, enabling attackers to craft malicious URLs that bypass normal access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to access sensitive configuration files, application source code, and potentially system credentials stored in accessible locations. Remote exploitation requires no authentication, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in publicly accessible web applications. The affected resource handler processes user-supplied parameters directly without proper sanitization, creating a pathway for attackers to retrieve files that should remain protected within the application's security boundaries. This weakness directly aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal vulnerability classification and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through malicious web content.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4367 require immediate application of security patches to upgrade to versions 2.0.12 or 2.1.6 and later. Organizations should implement input validation measures at the application level to sanitize all user-supplied parameters before processing, particularly those used in resource resolution paths. Network-level protections including web application firewalls can help detect and block suspicious traversal attempts, though these should complement rather than replace proper code-level fixes. System administrators should also conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify any other potentially vulnerable components within the JSF application stack and implement proper access controls to limit file system exposure. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure resource handling in web frameworks and underscores the necessity of regular security updates and proactive vulnerability management practices.