CVE-2024-29466 in Spring Boot Online Exam
Summary
by MITRE • 05/01/2024
Directory Traversal vulnerability in lsgwr spring boot online exam v.0.9 allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code via the FileTransUtil.java component.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The CVE-2024-29466 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the lsgwr spring boot online exam version 0.9 application. This vulnerability resides in the FileTransUtil.java component which handles file operations, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate file paths and access unauthorized system resources. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper sanitization of file path parameters, allowing attackers to craft malicious requests that can traverse directory boundaries and access files outside the intended application scope.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates through the manipulation of file path parameters within the FileTransUtil.java class, which processes file transfer operations. When user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file system operations without proper validation, attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specially formatted paths containing sequences like "../" or similar directory traversal patterns. The vulnerability specifically affects the application's file handling mechanisms, potentially enabling attackers to read sensitive configuration files, system files, or even execute arbitrary code on the underlying operating system. The flaw exists at the application layer where file operations are performed, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged to escalate privileges and gain deeper system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could potentially read database credentials, application configuration files containing sensitive information, or even access system binaries that could be leveraged for privilege escalation. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in data breaches, system infiltration, and potential denial of service conditions. According to the CWE classification, this maps to CWE-22: Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a well-documented weakness that has been exploited in numerous high-profile incidents. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects a spring boot application, which typically runs with elevated privileges and has access to sensitive system resources.
The security implications of CVE-2024-29466 align with several tactics and techniques outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to privilege escalation and credential access. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to move laterally within networks by accessing system files and configuration data that may contain credentials or other sensitive information. The vulnerability also fits within the broader context of file system exploitation techniques that are commonly used in initial compromise phases of cyber attacks. Organizations using this vulnerable software are at risk of unauthorized data access and potential system takeover, making this a critical security concern that requires immediate attention. The attack vector is particularly relevant in environments where spring boot applications are deployed with default configurations or where proper input validation has not been implemented.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the FileTransUtil.java component. Organizations should enforce strict path validation that prevents traversal sequences from being processed, implement proper access controls for file operations, and ensure that all file paths are properly normalized before being used in system calls. The recommended approach includes implementing a whitelist-based validation system that only allows specific, safe file paths, as well as applying proper authorization checks before any file operations are performed. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms that can detect and block malicious traversal attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application. The remediation process should involve upgrading to a patched version of the lsgwr spring boot online exam software, applying proper input validation, and implementing comprehensive logging and monitoring for file access operations to detect potential exploitation attempts.