CVE-2019-0214 in Archiva
Summary
by MITRE
In Apache Archiva 2.0.0 - 2.2.3, it is possible to write files to the archiva server at arbitrary locations by using the artifact upload mechanism. Existing files can be overwritten, if the archiva run user has appropriate permission on the filesystem for the target file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/11/2023
Apache Archiva serves as a repository manager that handles artifact storage and retrieval for software development environments. The vulnerability in versions 2.0.0 through 2.2.3 stems from insufficient input validation within the artifact upload mechanism, creating a path traversal condition that allows remote attackers to manipulate file system operations. This flaw exists because the application fails to properly sanitize file paths submitted during artifact uploads, enabling malicious users to specify arbitrary destination paths on the server filesystem. The vulnerability is classified as a path traversal issue under CWE-22, which represents one of the most common and dangerous categories of software flaws in repository management systems. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specially formatted artifact uploads that include directory traversal sequences, allowing them to write files to locations outside the intended artifact storage directories.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file creation capabilities, as it enables attackers to overwrite existing critical files with malicious content. When the Archiva service runs with elevated privileges, the consequences become significantly more severe, as attackers can potentially replace configuration files, executable components, or even system binaries with malicious equivalents. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection, and T1078.004 for valid accounts, since the exploitation leverages legitimate user permissions to execute malicious code. The vulnerability essentially transforms a normal repository upload function into a remote file system manipulation tool, bypassing normal access controls and authorization mechanisms. The affected versions represent a broad range of the Archiva 2.x release series, indicating this was a persistent flaw that affected multiple iterations of the software.
Security implications of this vulnerability are particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Archiva serves as a central artifact repository for multiple development teams and projects. The ability to overwrite existing files could lead to complete system compromise, especially if attackers target configuration files, log files, or other critical system components. Additionally, the vulnerability can be exploited to create backdoors or persistence mechanisms within the repository environment, as attackers can place malicious files in locations where they will be executed or referenced by legitimate processes. Organizations using Archiva in production environments should immediately assess their file system permissions and consider implementing additional security controls such as network segmentation, file system access restrictions, and monitoring for unauthorized file system modifications. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper file system access controls in repository management systems, as even seemingly benign functionality can become a weapon when proper security measures are absent.