CVE-2018-14912 in cgit
Summary
by MITRE
cgit_clone_objects in CGit before 1.2.1 has a directory traversal vulnerability when `enable-http-clone=1` is not turned off, as demonstrated by a cgit/cgit.cgi/git/objects/?path=../ request.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-14912 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the CGit web interface software version 1.2.1 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the cgit_clone_objects function which handles git object cloning operations through the web interface. The issue arises when the enable-http-clone configuration parameter remains enabled, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server through crafted HTTP requests. The vulnerability manifests when a malicious user submits a request to the cgit/cgit.cgi/git/objects/ endpoint with a path parameter containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ which can navigate outside the intended repository object directories.
This directory traversal vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and path sanitization within the CGit web application's object handling mechanism. The flaw occurs because the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the path parameter in the git objects request handler, allowing attackers to manipulate the file system access through relative path traversal sequences. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates at the web application layer and can be exploited without authentication, making it accessible to any remote user who can access the CGit interface. The affected code path specifically involves the cgit_clone_objects function which is responsible for serving git object data through HTTP requests when the enable-http-clone feature is active.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially allow attackers to access sensitive files on the server that contain configuration data, authentication credentials, or other confidential information stored within the repository or system directories. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to access system files, configuration files, or other sensitive data that should not be exposed through the web interface. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as "Improper Limiting of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')", which is a well-established weakness pattern in software security that has been documented across numerous applications and systems. This vulnerability directly aligns with attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1083 technique for "File and Directory Discovery" and T1566 for "Phishing with Malicious Attachment" when combined with other exploitation methods.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal technical skill and can be automated through simple HTTP request manipulation, making it particularly dangerous in environments where CGit is exposed to untrusted networks. Organizations using CGit with the enable-http-clone feature enabled are at risk of unauthorized file access and potential data breaches. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the application's security design where path validation is not properly enforced, allowing arbitrary file system navigation through web-based interfaces. Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability affects not only the immediate exposure of git repository objects but also represents a broader pattern of insufficient input validation that can lead to more severe consequences when combined with other vulnerabilities in the system. The recommended mitigation strategy involves disabling the enable-http-clone configuration parameter, updating to CGit version 1.2.1 or later, or implementing proper input validation and path sanitization mechanisms to prevent directory traversal attacks from succeeding.