CVE-2020-23715 in Webport
Summary
by MITRE • 06/28/2021
Directory Traversal vulnerability in Webport CMS 1.19.10.17121 via the file parameter to file/download.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/03/2021
The directory traversal vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-23715 affects Webport CMS version 1.19.10.17121 and specifically targets the file/download endpoint through manipulation of the file parameter. This vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that allows unauthorized users to access files outside the intended directory structure, potentially exposing sensitive system information, configuration files, or even executable code. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the file handling mechanism, enabling attackers to craft malicious requests that bypass normal access controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the directory traversal pattern where attackers can use sequences such as "../" or similar path manipulation techniques to navigate beyond the designated download directory. When the application processes the file parameter without proper validation, it fails to sanitize the input and may interpret crafted paths as legitimate file references, leading to unauthorized file access. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable more sophisticated attack vectors including remote code execution if the application allows execution of downloaded files or if the attacker can access system configuration files. An attacker could potentially retrieve database credentials, application source code, user data, or system binaries that could be used for further compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in web applications where file download functionality is exposed to unauthenticated users, as it requires no special privileges to exploit.
Organizations utilizing Webport CMS version 1.19.10.17121 should prioritize immediate remediation through the application of security patches provided by the vendor or implementation of compensating controls such as input validation, proper path normalization, and restrictive file access permissions. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1083 - File and Directory Discovery, as it enables attackers to explore the file system structure. Additionally, this weakness could facilitate other attack techniques including T1213 - Data from Information Repositories and T1566 - Phishing, where stolen information could be used for further social engineering campaigns. Security teams should implement network monitoring to detect suspicious file access patterns and ensure that file download functionality is properly restricted to authenticated users with appropriate access controls.