Path Traversal Vulnerability in ColdFusion by Adobe
CVE-2024-53961

7.4HIGH

Key Information:

Vendor: Adobe
Status: Coldfusion
Vendor: CVE Published:; 23 December 2024

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What is CVE-2024-53961?

CVE-2024-53961 is a path traversal vulnerability found in Adobe ColdFusion, a commercial rapid web application development platform used for building and deploying web applications. This vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate file paths, thereby gaining access to files or directories outside the intended restricted areas of the system. Organizations utilizing ColdFusion could face significant risks, as this could result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, potentially compromising the confidentiality and integrity of their systems and information.

Technical Details

The vulnerability specifically affects ColdFusion versions 2023.11, 2021.17, and earlier. It occurs due to improper limitations placed on file paths, which can be exploited by attackers to read arbitrary files within the file system. By circumventing the application’s directory restrictions, an attacker can access critical system files, database credentials, or application configurations, which may not be intended for user exposure. This issue is classified under path traversal vulnerabilities, where an attacker manipulates relative file paths to breach directory boundaries.

Potential impact of CVE-2024-53961

Unauthorized Data Disclosure: An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to access sensitive files such as user credentials, private customer data, or internal documents, leading to severe breaches of confidentiality and potential regulatory ramifications.
System Compromise: Access to administrative or sensitive files could allow attackers to further compromise the application, leading to an increased risk of full system takeover or the installation of malicious software.
Reputational Damage: Organizations affected by such vulnerabilities can suffer long-term reputational harm, especially if sensitive data is leaked or exploited. This can erode customer trust and lead to financial losses.