CVE-2017-14537 in Trixbox
Summary
by MITRE
trixbox 2.8.0.4 has path traversal via the xajaxargs array parameter to /maint/index.php?packages or the lang parameter to /maint/modules/home/index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14537 affects trixbox version 2.8.0.4 and represents a critical path traversal flaw that can be exploited through two distinct attack vectors. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw exists in the web application's handling of user-supplied input parameters, allowing attackers to manipulate file access mechanisms and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive system files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through two primary entry points within the trixbox administrative interface. The first vector involves the xajaxargs array parameter in the /maint/index.php?packages endpoint, while the second vector targets the lang parameter in /maint/modules/home/index.php. Both attack paths demonstrate a classic lack of proper input validation and sanitization, where user-controllable parameters are directly incorporated into file system operations without adequate restrictions. When an attacker submits malicious input through these parameters, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file system operations, creating opportunities for attackers to traverse the file system and access files outside the intended directory structure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable attackers to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially execute arbitrary code. Attackers can leverage this flaw to read system files such as password hashes, configuration files containing database credentials, or other sensitive information that could lead to further compromise of the system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects administrative interfaces that are typically protected but may be accessible to authenticated users with limited privileges. This creates a potential privilege escalation scenario where attackers can move laterally within the system to gain deeper access to system resources.
From a security perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing for Information), as attackers can use this flaw to discover system files and potentially extract sensitive information. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation practices that are commonly exploited in web application attacks, making it a prime example of how insufficient sanitization of user input can create serious security holes. Organizations using trixbox 2.8.0.4 should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, parameterized queries, and proper access controls to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. The recommended remediation involves upgrading to a patched version of trixbox or implementing proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms to prevent user-controllable parameters from being used in file system operations without adequate restrictions.