CVE-2024-6255 in ChuanhuChatGPT
Summary
by MITRE • 07/31/2024
A vulnerability in the JSON file handling of gaizhenbiao/chuanhuchatgpt version 20240410 allows any user to delete any JSON file on the server, including critical configuration files such as `config.json` and `ds_config_chatbot.json`. This issue arises due to improper validation of file paths, enabling directory traversal attacks. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability to disrupt the functioning of the system, manipulate settings, or potentially cause data loss or corruption.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the gaizhenbiao/chuanhuchatgpt application version 20240410 that fundamentally compromises server file system integrity. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the JSON file handling component, specifically failing to properly sanitize user-supplied file paths before processing operations. When users interact with the application's file management functions, the system does not adequately verify or filter the paths they provide, creating an exploitable condition where arbitrary file operations can be executed. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, a well-documented vulnerability pattern that has been consistently exploited in web applications and services. The implications extend beyond simple file deletion to encompass full system disruption and potential data compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to target any JSON configuration file within the server's file system. Critical files such as config.json and ds_config_chatbot.json become immediately accessible to unauthorized deletion or modification, potentially rendering the entire application non-functional or redirecting its behavior according to attacker preferences. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, as attackers can leverage the application's JavaScript-based file handling to execute malicious file operations. The ability to delete configuration files creates a cascading effect that can compromise authentication mechanisms, logging configurations, and other essential system parameters, effectively undermining the application's security posture and operational continuity.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal technical sophistication and can be accomplished through standard directory traversal payloads that manipulate file path parameters. Attackers can construct malicious requests that bypass normal file system access controls, potentially leading to complete system compromise or data destruction. The vulnerability's persistence and impact are further exacerbated by the fact that configuration files often contain sensitive information about system architecture, user credentials, and operational parameters. Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of ATT&CK technique T1566.001 - Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, where attackers might exploit this flaw through malicious file uploads or configuration manipulations. Mitigation strategies must include immediate implementation of proper path validation, input sanitization, and principle of least privilege access controls to prevent unauthorized file system operations.
Organizations deploying this application must urgently implement comprehensive security controls including mandatory file path validation, restriction of file system permissions for application processes, and regular security audits of file handling components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms in preventing privilege escalation attacks. Security monitoring should focus on detecting anomalous file system operations and unauthorized configuration file modifications. Additionally, the application should be updated to version 20240411 or later where the directory traversal vulnerability has been addressed through proper path validation mechanisms and input sanitization protocols. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for secure coding practices and the importance of validating all user inputs against a whitelist of acceptable values to prevent directory traversal and other path-based attacks.