CVE-2013-2085 in ownCloud
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in apps/files_trashbin/index.php in ownCloud Server before 5.0.6 allows remote authenticated users to access arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the dir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2085 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the ownCloud Server file management system. This issue affects versions prior to 5.0.6 and specifically targets the apps/files_trashbin/index.php component, which handles file recovery operations within the trash bin functionality. The vulnerability enables authenticated remote attackers to bypass normal file access controls and retrieve arbitrary files from the server's filesystem through manipulation of the directory parameter.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from inadequate input validation within the directory traversal handling mechanism. When users access the trash bin interface, the system processes a dir parameter that specifies the directory path for file recovery operations. The vulnerability occurs because the application fails to properly sanitize or validate the input provided in this parameter, allowing attackers to inject directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation. This malformed input permits access to parent directories beyond the intended scope of the trash bin functionality, potentially exposing sensitive system files, configuration data, or other users' files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity of the application's file system isolation mechanisms. An authenticated attacker with access to any valid ownCloud account can leverage this weakness to escalate privileges and potentially gain access to system-level files that should remain protected. The vulnerability affects not only individual user data but also system configuration files, log files, and potentially other sensitive information stored on the server. This represents a significant security risk for organizations relying on ownCloud for file storage and collaboration, as it allows attackers to bypass the application's built-in access controls and potentially extract confidential information.
The vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. This classification indicates that the flaw resides in the improper validation of file paths, allowing attackers to manipulate the application's file system navigation. From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing), as attackers can use it to discover and access sensitive files on the compromised system. The attack vector requires only authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by insiders or compromised users with legitimate access credentials.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-2085 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates and proper input validation implementation. Organizations should immediately upgrade to ownCloud Server version 5.0.6 or later, which includes the necessary patches to address the directory traversal vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should implement proper input validation at the application level, ensuring that all directory parameters undergo strict sanitization and validation before processing. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense in depth, though the primary solution remains the software update. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack, ensuring comprehensive protection against path traversal attacks that could compromise system integrity.