CVE-2017-1548 in Sterling File Gateway
Summary
by MITRE
IBM Sterling File Gateway 2.2 could allow a remote attacker to traverse directories on the system. An attacker could send a specially-crafted URL request containing "dot dot" sequences (/../) to view arbitrary files on the system. IBM X-Force ID: 131288.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1548 affects IBM Sterling File Gateway version 2.2, representing a critical directory traversal flaw that exposes systems to remote exploitation. This weakness enables attackers to manipulate file access through carefully crafted URL requests containing dot-dot sequences that navigate upward through the directory structure. The vulnerability specifically impacts the file gateway's handling of user-supplied input in URL parameters, failing to properly validate or sanitize path references before processing file operations. Such a flaw represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that has been consistently documented across numerous systems and applications, with the potential for severe impact on system confidentiality and integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the IBM Sterling File Gateway's web interface processing logic. When the system receives a URL request containing sequences such as /../ or similar directory navigation patterns, it fails to properly sanitize these inputs before using them to access system files. This inadequate validation allows an attacker to bypass normal file access controls and potentially retrieve sensitive files from the underlying operating system. The flaw operates at the application layer where web requests are processed, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through standard HTTP protocols without requiring special privileges or direct system access. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access and encompasses significant security implications for organizations relying on IBM Sterling File Gateway for file transfer operations. Attackers could potentially access system configuration files, user credentials, application source code, and other sensitive data stored on the same system. The remote nature of the exploit means that adversaries do not need physical access to the network or system, making the attack surface particularly broad. Organizations utilizing this gateway for enterprise file transfer operations face potential data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and operational disruption. The vulnerability's presence in a file gateway system also poses risks to business continuity and data integrity, as attackers could potentially access or modify critical business files and transfer operations.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates released for IBM Sterling File Gateway version 2.2. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the gateway's web interface, limiting exposure to trusted networks only. Input validation measures should be strengthened at the application level to properly sanitize all URL parameters and reject any requests containing directory traversal sequences. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help monitor and block suspicious requests containing dot-dot sequences. The remediation efforts should also include comprehensive security testing of the gateway configuration and regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar weaknesses in the broader system infrastructure. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and MITRE ATT&CK framework's application layer exploitation techniques, particularly focusing on credential access and privilege escalation through path traversal methods.