CVE-2014-9581 in Codiad
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in components/filemanager/download.php in Codiad 2.4.3 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the path parameter. NOTE: this issue was originally incorrectly mapped to CVE-2014-1137; see CVE-2014-1137 for more information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9581 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Codiad web-based integrated development environment version 2.4.3. This issue specifically affects the filemanager/download.php component which processes file download requests through a path parameter that fails to properly validate user input. The vulnerability enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server by manipulating the path parameter with directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) notation. This flaw essentially allows unauthorized access to files outside the intended download directory, potentially exposing sensitive system files, configuration data, or source code to malicious actors. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and validation mechanisms within the file handling logic, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass normal access controls and retrieve files they should not be authorized to access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal attacks, where insufficient input validation allows attackers to manipulate file paths and access unauthorized resources. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under the ATT&CK technique T1083 File and Directory Discovery, as it enables adversaries to enumerate and access files beyond the intended scope of the application's file management system. Attackers can leverage this weakness by constructing malicious URLs that include directory traversal sequences in the path parameter, effectively navigating upward through the file system hierarchy to access sensitive files. The impact extends beyond simple file access as it may potentially lead to information disclosure of system configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive data that could be used for further exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-9581 is significant for organizations using Codiad 2.4.3, as it creates a persistent security risk that can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication. This vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the system by allowing unauthorized data access and could potentially serve as a stepping stone for more advanced attacks. The flaw particularly impacts web development environments where Codiad is deployed, as it may expose source code files, configuration settings, or other sensitive information that could aid in compromising the entire development infrastructure. Organizations running this vulnerable version face increased risk of data breaches and potential system compromise, especially if the application has access to sensitive development resources or production data. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can leverage it from any location without requiring physical access to the system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9581 should prioritize immediate remediation through software updates, as version 2.4.4 and later releases contain fixes for this directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations should implement input validation measures that sanitize all path parameters by removing or encoding directory traversal sequences before processing file requests. The implementation of proper access controls and least privilege principles can help limit the damage even if the vulnerability is exploited. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the Codiad application to trusted networks only. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications. The fix typically involves implementing proper path validation that ensures file access remains within designated directories and rejects any attempts to navigate outside the intended scope. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring solutions that can detect and prevent directory traversal attempts. Regular patch management processes should be established to ensure timely updates of all web applications and prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in the environment.