CVE-2020-23069 in webTareas
Summary
by MITRE • 08/18/2021
Path Traversal vulneraility exists in webTareas 2.0 via the extpath parameter in general_serv.php, which could let a malicious user read arbitrary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2021
The CVE-2020-23069 vulnerability represents a critical path traversal flaw in webTareas 2.0 software that exposes sensitive system files through improper input validation. This vulnerability specifically affects the general_serv.php script where the extpath parameter is processed without adequate sanitization, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to navigate the file system beyond intended boundaries. The flaw resides in the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file operations, which directly violates established security principles for input handling and access control.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal attack vector where malicious users can manipulate the extpath parameter to access files outside the intended directory structure. When the application processes user input through this parameter, it does not adequately filter or validate the path components, allowing attackers to use sequences such as ../ or ..\ to move up directory levels and access restricted files. This weakness enables arbitrary file reading capabilities that can expose configuration files, source code, database credentials, and other sensitive information stored on the server. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations using webTareas 2.0 as it allows attackers to potentially extract confidential data, compromise system integrity, and gain insights into the application's architecture. The ability to read arbitrary files can lead to information disclosure attacks that may reveal database connection strings, application secrets, and system configuration details. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, perform further reconnaissance, or establish persistence within the target environment. The vulnerability also increases the attack surface for potential lateral movement and privilege escalation attacks, as sensitive files containing authentication credentials or system information may be accessible through this path traversal vector.
Security mitigations for CVE-2020-23069 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms to prevent malicious path traversal attempts. Organizations should immediately apply patches or updates provided by the software vendor to address this vulnerability. Input validation should include strict filtering of path components, rejection of directory traversal sequences, and implementation of allow-list validation for file paths. The application should enforce proper access controls and implement the principle of least privilege when processing file operations. Additionally, security measures such as web application firewalls, input validation libraries, and regular security code reviews should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1083 File and Directory Discovery, emphasizing the importance of proper file system access controls and input validation in preventing information disclosure attacks.