CVE-2014-10068 in Inert Module
Summary
by MITRE
The inert directory handler in inert node module before 1.1.1 always allows files in hidden directories to be served, even when `showHidden` is false.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-10068 resides within the inert node module, a popular web server framework component used for serving static files in node.js applications. This issue represents a critical security flaw in how the module handles directory traversal and file access controls, specifically affecting versions prior to 1.1.1. The inert module is commonly employed in web applications to serve static content such as HTML files, images, CSS, and JavaScript resources, making it a fundamental component in many web server configurations.
The technical flaw manifests in the directory handler's logic where it fails to properly respect the `showHidden` configuration parameter. When this parameter is set to false, the system should typically prevent access to hidden directories and their contents, which are conventionally prefixed with a dot character on Unix-like systems. However, the vulnerable implementation completely ignores this setting, allowing unauthorized access to files within hidden directories regardless of the configuration. This behavior creates a significant bypass of intended access controls that should normally restrict visibility of sensitive system files or application configuration data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially expose sensitive files that administrators expect to remain hidden from public access. Attackers could exploit this flaw to gain access to configuration files, log files, backup data, or other system artifacts that are typically stored in hidden directories. This vulnerability directly relates to CWE-200, which addresses improper exposure of sensitive information, and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for Data from Information Repositories. The flaw essentially allows for unauthorized enumeration and access to potentially sensitive data that should remain protected by standard file system access controls.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate upgrading to version 1.1.1 or later of the inert module, which properly implements the `showHidden` parameter. System administrators should also conduct comprehensive audits of their web server configurations to ensure no other similar modules or components exhibit analogous behavior. Additional protective measures include implementing proper file system permissions, using web application firewalls to monitor for suspicious access patterns, and conducting regular security assessments to identify potential access control bypasses. Organizations should also consider implementing automated monitoring for unauthorized access attempts to hidden directories and establish robust incident response procedures to address potential exploitation of such vulnerabilities.