CVE-2017-18636 in CDG
Summary
by MITRE
CDG through 2017-01-01 allows downloadDocument.jsp?command=download&pathAndName= directory traversal.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-18636 affects CDG versions through 2017-01-01 and represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the downloadDocument.jsp component. This vulnerability exists within the web application's file handling mechanism where the command parameter processes user-supplied pathAndName values without adequate input validation or sanitization. The affected application component processes file download requests through the downloadDocument.jsp servlet which directly incorporates user-provided path information into file system operations, creating an opportunity for attackers to access arbitrary files on the server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of the pathAndName parameter in the downloadDocument.jsp script. When an attacker submits a malicious path value containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, the application fails to properly sanitize or restrict these inputs before using them in file system operations. This allows unauthorized access to files outside the intended download directory, potentially exposing sensitive data including configuration files, source code, database credentials, or other privileged information. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP GET requests targeting the vulnerable endpoint.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-18636 is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and retrieve files that should remain protected. This vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors, as it may allow access to application configuration files containing database connection strings, cryptographic keys, or other sensitive credentials. The vulnerability also exposes potential for data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and further escalation attacks. Organizations running affected versions of CDG face significant risk of unauthorized data access and potential regulatory compliance violations due to exposure of sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms at the application level. The most effective remediation involves implementing strict path validation that rejects or filters out directory traversal sequences before processing user inputs. Organizations should enforce a whitelist approach for file access, limiting downloads to predefined safe directories and explicitly validating all path parameters. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation can help minimize the impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security practitioners should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious path traversal patterns, and conduct regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and maps to attack techniques in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1083 File and Directory Discovery and T1566 Phishing, particularly when used as part of initial access or lateral movement phases in cyber attacks.