CVE-2012-3380 in naxsi
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in naxsi-ui/nx_extract.py in the Naxsi module before 0.46-1 for Nginx allows local users to read arbitrary files via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/17/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-3380 represents a directory traversal flaw within the naxsi-ui component of the Naxsi security module for Nginx web servers. This issue affects versions prior to 0.46-1 and specifically targets the nx_extract.py script that handles data extraction for the Naxsi user interface. The vulnerability enables local attackers to access arbitrary files on the system through unspecified vectors, potentially exposing sensitive information and compromising system integrity. Directory traversal vulnerabilities of this nature typically arise from insufficient input validation and improper handling of file paths, allowing attackers to manipulate file access requests through malicious path sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input within the nx_extract.py script. When processing data extraction requests, the script fails to properly validate or sanitize file path parameters, enabling attackers to construct malicious path sequences that can traverse directory structures and access files outside the intended scope. This flaw operates at the application level and specifically impacts the Naxsi module's user interface component rather than the core Nginx server functionality. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as a directory traversal attack, which occurs when an application allows access to files and directories outside its intended scope through manipulation of input parameters. The local privilege requirement indicates that exploitation requires an attacker to already have access to the system, though this still represents a significant security risk.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-3380 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it could potentially allow attackers to access sensitive configuration files, log data, or other system resources that might contain credentials, system information, or other confidential data. This vulnerability undermines the security posture of Nginx installations using the Naxsi module, particularly in environments where the module's UI component is accessible to unauthorized users. The implications are significant for organizations relying on Naxsi for web application firewall protection, as this vulnerability could be exploited to bypass security controls and access internal system resources. Attackers could leverage this weakness to gather intelligence about the target system, potentially leading to further exploitation opportunities or data breaches.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve immediate upgrading to Naxsi version 0.46-1 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the directory traversal issue. System administrators should also implement proper input validation and sanitization measures within the application code, particularly for any file access operations. Additionally, access controls should be enforced to limit local system access to only authorized personnel and to restrict the functionality of the naxsi-ui component. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their Nginx installations to identify any other potential vulnerabilities in the Naxsi module or related components. The remediation process should also include monitoring for any suspicious activity related to file access patterns and implementing proper logging and alerting mechanisms to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing) as attackers might use such information to craft more sophisticated attacks.