Path Traversal Vulnerability in Zoo-Project Echo Example

CVE-2024-53982

What is CVE-2024-53982?

CVE-2024-53982 is a critical vulnerability found in the Zoo-Project's Echo example, a C-based implementation of web processing services. This vulnerability involves a path traversal issue that allows attackers to manipulate user-supplied parameters, granting them control over the file returned in the response. Without proper input validation, organizations utilizing this software could face significant security risks, potentially leading to unauthorized data access and breaches.

Technical Details

The vulnerability allows for path traversal attacks in the Echo example included with Zoo-Project installations. By exploiting this flaw, attackers can traverse the file system to access files that should be protected or outside of the authorized directory. The flaw arises from the lack of input validation in user-given parameters, which determines which file is returned. The absence of necessary safeguards means that malicious actors can craft specific requests to receive sensitive information.

Potential Impact of CVE-2024-53982

1. Unauthorized Data Exposure: Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to access confidential data stored on the server, leading to potential data breaches that can compromise sensitive information.

2. Data Integrity Threats: The ability to manipulate file paths may allow malicious actors to alter or delete files, leading to a loss of data integrity and reliability of information within the affected systems.

3. Compliance and Regulatory Risks: Organizations affected by this vulnerability may face non-compliance with data protection regulations, resulting in legal ramifications, fines, and damage to reputation due to compromised data security.

References