CVE-2013-6720 in Tealeaf CX
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in download.php in the Passive Capture Application (PCA) web console in IBM Tealeaf CX 7.x, 8.x through 8.6, 8.7 before FP2, and 8.8 before FP2 allows remote authenticated users to bypass intended access restrictions via a .. (dot dot) in the log parameter, as demonstrated using a crafted request for a customer-support file, as demonstrated by a log file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-6720 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within IBM Tealeaf CX's Passive Capture Application web console. This security weakness exists in multiple versions of the software including 7.x, 8.x through 8.6, 8.7 before FP2, and 8.8 before FP2. The vulnerability specifically affects the download.php script which handles file downloads through the web interface. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of the log parameter, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file access paths through the use of .. (dot dot) sequences in their requests.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when authenticated users submit crafted requests containing directory traversal sequences in the log parameter. This allows attackers to navigate beyond the intended file access boundaries and potentially access restricted files within the application's file system. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the inherent trust placed in authenticated users, making it particularly dangerous as it requires minimal privileges to exploit. The attack vector specifically targets the download.php component which processes customer-support file requests, enabling unauthorized access to log files and potentially sensitive operational data.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using IBM Tealeaf CX solutions. The ability to bypass access restrictions means that authenticated attackers can potentially access confidential customer data, system logs, and other sensitive information that should remain protected. The exposure of log files could reveal system configurations, user activities, and other operational details that could be leveraged for further attacks. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality and integrity of the system, potentially leading to data breaches and compliance violations. The fact that this affects multiple versions of the software indicates a widespread impact across different deployment environments.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the relevant IBM security patches and fixes released for this vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be reinforced to limit the exposure of the affected web console to only authorized personnel. Input validation should be enhanced at the application level to properly sanitize all user-supplied parameters including the log parameter. Security monitoring should be increased to detect suspicious file access patterns and potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and follows attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation and credential access techniques. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in the broader application ecosystem and ensure comprehensive protection against similar directory traversal vulnerabilities.