CVE-2017-5982 in Kodi
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the Chorus2 2.4.2 add-on for Kodi allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a %2E%2E%252e (encoded dot dot slash) in the image path, as demonstrated by image/image%3A%2F%2F%2e%2e%252fetc%252fpasswd.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/02/2020
The CVE-2017-5982 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Chorus2 2.4.2 add-on for the Kodi media center platform. This vulnerability specifically targets the image handling functionality of the add-on, which processes image paths through a web interface. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of file path parameters, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the system's file access mechanisms through carefully crafted encoded sequences. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables remote attackers to access sensitive system files without authentication, potentially exposing system configuration data, user credentials, and other confidential information stored on the affected device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way the Chorus2 add-on processes image paths containing encoded directory traversal sequences. Attackers can inject %2E%2E%252e sequences which represent encoded dot-dot-slash patterns that should normally be blocked or properly resolved by the file system. When the add-on processes these sequences, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the input, allowing the traversal mechanism to access parent directories in the file system. The specific example demonstrates access to /etc/passwd, a critical system file containing user account information on Unix-like systems. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages HTTP-based communication to deliver the malicious payload, making it accessible over network connections without requiring local system access.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-5982 extends beyond simple file reading capabilities, as it can potentially expose sensitive system information that could be used for further exploitation. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain access to system configuration files, user credentials, and other sensitive data that might be stored in accessible locations. This information could then be used to conduct additional attacks, escalate privileges, or pivot to other systems within the network. The vulnerability affects users running the Chorus2 add-on on Kodi installations, which are commonly deployed in home entertainment systems, media centers, and potentially in commercial environments where such systems might be accessible over networks. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require physical access to the device, making it particularly dangerous for systems connected to the internet or internal networks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and input validation improvements. The primary solution involves updating to a patched version of the Chorus2 add-on where the input validation has been strengthened to properly handle encoded directory traversal sequences. System administrators should also implement network-based protections such as firewalls that restrict access to the Kodi interface, particularly if the system is exposed to untrusted networks. Input sanitization measures should be implemented to filter out or decode potentially malicious sequences before processing file paths. Additionally, network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the potential impact if exploitation occurs. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring for unusual file access patterns and network traffic that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and follows attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under techniques related to privilege escalation and credential access through file system manipulation.