CVE-2025-4178 in java_server
Summary
by MITRE • 05/02/2025
A vulnerability was found in xiaowei1118 java_server up to 11a5bac8f4ba1c17e4bc1b27cad6d24868500e3a on Windows and classified as critical. This issue affects some unknown processing of the file /src/main/java/com/changyu/foryou/controller/FoodController.java of the component File Upload API. The manipulation leads to path traversal. The attack may be initiated remotely. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. This product takes the approach of rolling releases to provide continious delivery. Therefore, version details for affected and updated releases are not available.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/02/2025
CVE-2025-4178 represents a critical path traversal vulnerability in the xiaowei1118 java_server software, specifically within the File Upload API component located at /src/main/java/com/changyu/foryou/controller/FoodController.java. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of file upload parameters, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths during the upload process. The flaw enables unauthorized access to the server's file system by traversing directory structures through specially crafted file names that contain directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the server's failure to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied file names during the upload operation. When a malicious user submits a file with a path traversal payload in its name, the application processes this input without sufficient validation, potentially allowing the file to be written to unintended locations within the server's file system. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-73 Path Traversal in File Name, which are fundamental security issues in file handling operations.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to the affected system as it allows remote exploitation without requiring authentication. The attack surface is expanded due to the public disclosure of exploit details, making it accessible to threat actors who may leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code, access sensitive data, or potentially establish persistent access to the server. The rolling release approach of the software complicates remediation efforts as the exact version information is unavailable, making it difficult for users to determine their vulnerability status or apply appropriate patches.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file system access, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise. Attackers might use this vulnerability to upload malicious files such as web shells, modify critical application files, or access sensitive configuration data. The continuous delivery model of the software, while beneficial for rapid feature deployment, creates challenges for vulnerability management and patching, as the lack of specific version information hampers effective vulnerability assessment and mitigation planning. Organizations should immediately implement network-level controls to restrict access to the vulnerable API endpoints and consider deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious path traversal attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of implementing proper input validation, secure file handling practices, and regular security assessments to prevent similar issues in future software releases.
This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1566 Phishing, as it provides attackers with a method to execute arbitrary commands through file upload capabilities and potentially gain access to sensitive information through path traversal attacks. The public disclosure of the exploit increases the likelihood of widespread exploitation, making immediate remediation essential for affected systems.