CVE-2014-10073 in Psensor
Summary
by MITRE
The create_response function in server/server.c in Psensor before 1.1.4 allows Directory Traversal because it lacks a check for whether a file is under the webserver directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-10073 resides within the Psensor software version 1.1.3 and earlier, specifically within the server/server.c file in the create_response function. This flaw represents a classic directory traversal vulnerability that stems from inadequate input validation and path sanitization mechanisms. The software fails to properly verify that requested files originate from within the designated webserver directory, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to access arbitrary files on the system through crafted requests.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests when the create_response function processes file requests without performing proper directory validation checks. This allows attackers to manipulate file paths using directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, enabling them to navigate outside the intended web root directory. The absence of path validation creates a condition where user-supplied input directly influences file system operations, bypassing normal access controls and potentially exposing sensitive system files, configuration data, or other restricted resources.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to system security and data integrity. An attacker could leverage this flaw to access critical system files, configuration parameters, or sensitive data stored on the server. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it could potentially enable further exploitation through access to system configuration files, log files, or other resources that might contain credentials or other attack vectors. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of the system, as unauthorized file access could lead to complete system compromise.
The vulnerability maps to CWE-22 Directory Traversal and aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1083 File and Directory Discovery and T1566 Phishing. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to Psensor version 1.1.4 or later, which contains the necessary path validation fixes. Additional protective measures include implementing proper input validation, restricting file access permissions, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and filter malicious requests. The fix should enforce strict path validation that ensures all file operations occur within the designated web server directory boundaries, preventing any traversal outside the intended scope.