CVE-2023-38366 in Filenet Content Manager
Summary
by MITRE • 03/01/2024
IBM Filenet Content Manager Component 5.5.8.0, 5.5.10.0, and 5.5.11.0 could allow a remote attacker to traverse directories on the system. An attacker could send a specially crafted URL request containing "dot dot" sequences (/../) to view arbitrary files on the system. IBM X-Force ID: 261115.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/24/2025
IBM Filenet Content Manager Component versions 5.5.8.0, 5.5.10.0, and 5.5.11.0 contain a directory traversal vulnerability that allows remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the underlying system through specially crafted URL requests. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and path sanitization within the web application's request handling mechanism, enabling attackers to manipulate file paths using dot-dot-sequence patterns such as /../ to navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries. The flaw exists in the component's web interface processing logic where user-supplied URL parameters are not properly validated or sanitized before being used to construct file system paths. This directory traversal vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a well-established weakness in software security that has been documented across numerous applications and systems. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, making it accessible to any attacker who can reach the vulnerable system. The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows unauthorized access to sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially confidential business information stored within the application's directory structure. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract system credentials, application source code, database connection details, and other critical information that could lead to further compromise of the system. The vulnerability aligns with several techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1083 - File and Directory Discovery tactic, as it enables adversaries to enumerate the file system structure and access files that should normally be restricted. The affected IBM Filenet Content Manager Component operates as part of a larger enterprise content management system, making the potential impact extend beyond simple file access to include disruption of business operations and compromise of intellectual property. Organizations using these vulnerable versions face the risk of data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the web-facing components of the system and could be exploited through various attack vectors including web browser access, automated scanning tools, or API calls that process user input through the vulnerable interface. This type of directory traversal vulnerability has been historically classified as a high-severity issue due to its potential for data exposure and the relative ease with which it can be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise. IBM has addressed this vulnerability in subsequent releases, and organizations should immediately upgrade to patched versions to mitigate the risk of exploitation. The recommended mitigation strategy includes implementing proper input validation, deploying web application firewalls, and restricting unnecessary file system access permissions for the application components. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their content management systems to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other components of their infrastructure. Regular security monitoring and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts and ensure ongoing protection against similar directory traversal attacks.