CVE-2017-1000170 in jqueryFileTree
Summary
by MITRE
jqueryFileTree 2.1.5 and older Directory Traversal
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1000170 affects jqueryFileTree version 2.1.5 and earlier, representing a critical directory traversal flaw that enables unauthorized access to arbitrary files on the server. This vulnerability resides within the file browsing functionality of the jqueryFileTree plugin, which is commonly used in web applications to provide file management capabilities through ajax-based file trees. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's file path handling code, allowing malicious users to manipulate file paths and access files outside the intended directory structure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the file path parameters sent to the jqueryFileTree plugin, specifically targeting the directory traversal mechanism that processes file listings. Attackers can leverage directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ to navigate beyond the designated file access boundaries and retrieve sensitive files from the server. This flaw falls under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without authentication, allowing attackers to access configuration files, source code, database files, and other sensitive data that should remain protected within the application's restricted file access zones.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-1000170 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data breaches. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can obtain sensitive information such as database credentials, application configuration files, user data, and potentially system-level files that could reveal system architecture details. This information can then be used to escalate privileges, conduct further attacks, or maintain persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where the jqueryFileTree plugin is integrated into web applications that handle sensitive data or where the plugin is accessible to unauthenticated users. The attack surface is broad since jqueryFileTree is widely used across various web platforms and content management systems, making numerous applications potentially vulnerable to this flaw.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-1000170 require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and sanitization. The most effective solution involves upgrading to jqueryFileTree version 2.1.6 or later, which includes patched code that properly validates and sanitizes file path parameters before processing them. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation that strips or encodes potentially dangerous characters such as .., /, \, and other path traversal sequences. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and restricting file access to authenticated users only can significantly reduce the attack surface. Security measures should also include monitoring for suspicious file access patterns and implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block directory traversal attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and the principle of least privilege in web application development, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1083 for file and directory discovery. Organizations must also conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning to identify similar issues in other components of their web applications and ensure that all third-party libraries are kept up to date with security patches.