CVE-2013-5655 in YingZhi Python Programming Language
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the FTP server in YingZhi Python Programming Language for iOS 1.9 allows remote attackers to read and possibly write arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the default URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/03/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2013-5655 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the FTP server component of the YingZhi Python Programming Language application for iOS version 1.9. This security weakness enables remote attackers to manipulate file access patterns through specially crafted URI requests containing dot-dot sequences. The vulnerability specifically affects the application's handling of file paths during FTP operations, creating an opportunity for unauthorized data access and potential system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the FTP server fails to properly validate or sanitize input parameters containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e. When a malicious user submits a request with these sequences in the default URI, the server processes the path traversal attempt without adequate sanitization, allowing access to files outside the intended directory structure. This flaw directly relates to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental failure in input validation and access control mechanisms within the application's file handling processes.
From an operational perspective, this directory traversal vulnerability presents significant risks to system security and data integrity. Attackers can potentially read sensitive files including configuration data, user credentials, application source code, or other confidential information stored on the device. The ability to perform both read and write operations through this vulnerability escalates the threat level, as malicious actors could not only extract data but also modify or corrupt files within the application's file system. This represents a serious concern for mobile applications that handle sensitive user data or system resources, particularly when operating in environments where unauthorized access could lead to further compromise or data exfiltration.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data access, as it can serve as a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within the iOS environment. Security researchers have noted that directory traversal vulnerabilities often provide attackers with the initial access needed to escalate privileges or discover additional weaknesses within the application or underlying system. Organizations should consider this vulnerability in the context of broader security frameworks such as those defined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, where path traversal attacks fall under techniques related to privilege escalation and credential access. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of implementing proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly when developing mobile applications that handle network protocols and file system operations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the affected application to version 1.9 or later, which should contain proper input sanitization and path validation mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict URI validation and normalization processes to prevent dot-dot sequences from being processed as part of file paths. Additionally, access controls should be implemented to restrict FTP server operations to only authorized users and to limit the scope of file system access. Network segmentation and monitoring of FTP traffic can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts, while regular security audits of mobile applications should include thorough testing for path traversal vulnerabilities. The remediation efforts should align with industry best practices for secure coding and application security testing as recommended by standards such as OWASP Mobile Top 10 and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.