CVE-2023-40049 in WS_FTP Server
Summary
by MITRE • 10/25/2023
In WS_FTP Server version 8.8.0 prior to 8.8.2, an unauthenticated user could enumerate files under the 'WebServiceHost' directory listing.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-40049 affects WS_FTP Server version 8.8.0 and earlier releases, specifically exposing a directory traversal and information disclosure weakness within the WebServiceHost directory. This flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to perform file enumeration operations without requiring any valid credentials or authentication tokens, creating a significant security risk for systems running this particular version of the FTP server software. The vulnerability stems from insufficient access controls and improper directory listing restrictions within the web service component of the application.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the WebServiceHost directory handling logic where the server fails to properly validate or restrict access to directory contents. An attacker can exploit this weakness by crafting specific requests that bypass normal authentication mechanisms and gain visibility into the file structure of the web service host directory. This enumeration capability provides adversaries with valuable reconnaissance information about the server's file system layout, potentially exposing sensitive files, configuration data, or system artifacts that could aid in further exploitation attempts. The flaw operates at the application layer and specifically impacts the web interface functionality of the FTP server.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-40049 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with critical reconnaissance data that can be leveraged for subsequent attacks. The ability to enumerate files without authentication creates opportunities for attackers to identify sensitive configuration files, backup data, or other system artifacts that may contain credentials, system information, or application-specific details. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-200 (Information Exposure) and represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege, where unauthorized users can access directory listings that should be restricted. The exposure of directory contents can facilitate more sophisticated attacks such as path traversal, privilege escalation, or targeted exploitation of specific file types.
Organizations running affected versions of WS_FTP Server should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to version 8.8.2 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address this vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of the web service interface to trusted networks only. Additionally, implementing proper authentication mechanisms and monitoring for unusual directory listing requests can help detect exploitation attempts. This vulnerability relates to ATT&CK technique T1083 (Directory Listing) and T1566 (Phishing), as it enables initial reconnaissance that can lead to more comprehensive attacks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other components of the network infrastructure.