Source: cve@mitre.org
Directory traversal vulnerability in jretest.html in WebConnect 6.5 and 6.4.4, and possibly earlier versions, allows remote attackers to read keys within arbitrary INI formatted files via "..//" sequences in the WCP_USER parameter.
WebConnect versions 6.5 and 6.4.4, and potentially earlier, are vulnerable to a directory traversal attack, allowing attackers to read sensitive configuration files. This vulnerability enables unauthorized access to critical information, potentially leading to system compromise and data exfiltration. Successful exploitation could provide attackers with credentials and other sensitive data, impacting the confidentiality and integrity of the system.
Step 1: Payload Delivery: The attacker crafts a malicious HTTP request to jretest.html on the vulnerable WebConnect server. This request includes the WCP_USER parameter.
Step 2: Directory Traversal: The attacker uses ..// sequences within the WCP_USER parameter to navigate up the directory structure. For example, WCP_USER=..//..//..//etc/passwd attempts to read the /etc/passwd file.
Step 3: File Access: The jretest.html script, due to the lack of input validation, processes the malicious WCP_USER value. It attempts to read the specified file (e.g., /etc/passwd or an INI file) using the provided path.
Step 4: Information Disclosure: The script, if successful, reads the contents of the targeted file. The contents of the file are then returned in the HTTP response, revealing sensitive information to the attacker.
The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation in the jretest.html script when processing the WCP_USER parameter. The script fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input, specifically the use of ..// sequences. This allows an attacker to craft a malicious request that navigates outside the intended directory structure. The script then attempts to read the contents of an arbitrary INI file specified by the attacker, potentially revealing sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and other configuration details. The root cause is a lack of proper input validation and path sanitization, leading to a directory traversal vulnerability.
This vulnerability is likely targeted by opportunistic attackers seeking to gain initial access or escalate privileges. It's less likely to be associated with specific APT groups, but could be incorporated into their toolsets. CISA KEV status: Not listed. However, due to the age and nature of the vulnerability, it's highly likely that it would be exploited by any attacker with knowledge of the system.
Monitor HTTP request logs for suspicious WCP_USER parameter values containing ..// sequences.
Analyze web server access logs for requests to jretest.html with unusual file paths in the WCP_USER parameter.
Implement file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes to critical configuration files.
Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to block directory traversal attempts.
Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS) can be configured to detect malicious HTTP requests with directory traversal attempts.
Upgrade to a patched version of WebConnect or a version that is no longer vulnerable. If upgrading is not possible, apply vendor-provided patches.
Implement robust input validation to sanitize the WCP_USER parameter, ensuring that it only accepts valid characters and does not allow directory traversal sequences.
Restrict access to jretest.html and other sensitive files and directories using file system permissions.
Use a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious requests.
Regularly audit and review web server configurations for security vulnerabilities.
Implement a defense-in-depth strategy, including network segmentation and intrusion detection systems.