CVE-2017-16144 in myserver.alexcthomas18
Summary
by MITRE
myserver.alexcthomas18 is a file server. myserver.alexcthomas18 is vulnerable to a directory traversal issue, giving an attacker access to the filesystem by placing "../" in the url.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/16/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16144 affects myserver.alexcthomas18, a file server application that demonstrates a classic directory traversal flaw in its web interface implementation. This weakness allows remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server's filesystem by manipulating URL parameters through the strategic insertion of directory traversal sequences such as "../". The vulnerability represents a fundamental failure in input validation and path resolution within the server's file access mechanisms, enabling unauthorized information disclosure and potential system compromise.
This directory traversal vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw exists at the application layer where user-supplied input is not properly sanitized or validated before being used to construct file paths. When the server processes URLs containing "../" sequences, it fails to adequately restrict the directory traversal operations, allowing attackers to navigate beyond the intended document root and access sensitive system files, configuration data, or user information that should remain protected.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the ability to access critical system resources including system configuration files, user credentials, application source code, and potentially execute arbitrary commands if the server's file access permissions are misconfigured. This weakness can be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying operating system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the server's confidentiality and integrity by allowing unauthorized access to sensitive data and could enable further attacks through the discovery of additional system information or credentials.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-16144 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied data before it is used in file path operations. The recommended approach includes implementing strict path validation that prevents the use of directory traversal sequences, employing secure coding practices that utilize whitelisting mechanisms for file access, and ensuring that all file operations occur within designated safe directories. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms that can detect and block suspicious URL patterns. Additionally, regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other applications, as this type of flaw is commonly found in legacy systems and can be exploited through various attack vectors including the web application layer and direct API access points. The vulnerability aligns with several tactics in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to credential access and privilege escalation through information discovery and exploitation of software vulnerabilities.