Source: cve@mitre.org
The Apache configuration file (httpd.conf) in Oracle 9i Application Server (9iAS) uses a Location alias for /perl directory instead of a ScriptAlias, which allows remote attackers to read the source code of arbitrary CGI files via a URL containing the /perl directory instead of /cgi-bin.
Oracle 9i Application Server (9iAS) is vulnerable to a critical information disclosure flaw. Attackers can remotely retrieve the source code of CGI scripts by exploiting a misconfiguration in the Apache web server, potentially leading to credential theft and further system compromise. This vulnerability allows attackers to understand the inner workings of the application and identify other vulnerabilities.
Step 1: Vulnerability Identification: The attacker identifies a target running Oracle 9iAS, likely through port scanning (e.g., port 80 or 443).
Step 2: Configuration Analysis: The attacker determines the presence of the vulnerable configuration by examining the server's response headers or by attempting to access a known CGI script through the /perl path.
Step 3: Payload Construction: The attacker crafts a URL that requests a CGI script through the /perl directory (e.g., http://target/perl/script.cgi).
Step 4: Request Submission: The attacker sends the crafted URL to the vulnerable server.
Step 5: Source Code Retrieval: The server, due to the misconfiguration, serves the source code of the CGI script instead of executing it.
Step 6: Information Gathering: The attacker analyzes the retrieved source code to identify vulnerabilities, credentials, or other sensitive information.
The vulnerability stems from an incorrect configuration in the Apache web server's httpd.conf file within Oracle 9iAS. Instead of using ScriptAlias to map the /cgi-bin directory to the location of CGI scripts, a Location alias was used for the /perl directory. This misconfiguration allows attackers to access the source code of CGI scripts by requesting them through the /perl path. The Apache web server, when encountering a request for a file within a Location directive, serves the file directly, bypassing the intended execution of the CGI script and revealing its source code. The root cause is a logic error in the configuration, where the intended behavior of executing CGI scripts is bypassed due to the use of Location instead of ScriptAlias.
While no specific APTs are directly linked to this vulnerability, its age and ease of exploitation make it a likely target for opportunistic attackers and script kiddies. This vulnerability could be used as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks. Not listed on CISA KEV.
Network traffic analysis: Look for HTTP requests targeting the /perl directory, especially those requesting CGI files.
Web server logs: Examine Apache access logs for requests to the /perl directory, specifically for requests that return a 200 OK status with the content type of text/plain or similar, indicating the source code was served.
File system analysis: Check the contents of the httpd.conf file for the incorrect Location alias for the /perl directory instead of a ScriptAlias.
Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS): Implement rules to detect requests to the /perl directory for known CGI scripts.
Correct the Apache configuration file (httpd.conf) to use ScriptAlias for the /cgi-bin directory instead of Location for /perl. Ensure the correct path to the CGI scripts is specified.
Upgrade to a supported version of Oracle 9iAS or a later version that addresses this configuration issue. Consider migrating to a more modern and secure application server.
Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms to restrict access to sensitive resources and the web server's configuration files.
Regularly audit the web server configuration for any misconfigurations or vulnerabilities.
Apply the principle of least privilege; ensure the web server runs with the minimum necessary permissions.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious requests, including those targeting the /perl directory.