CVE-2018-19052 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2018-19052, a path traversal vulnerability in Lighttpd version 1.4.50. Understand the impact, affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and mitigation steps to secure your web server.
Lighttpd version 1.4.50 is affected by a path traversal vulnerability in mod_alias_physical_handler. This CVE allows an attacker to navigate to a directory one level above a specified alias target by exploiting a specific mod_alias configuration. The issue arises when the alias lacks a trailing '/' character while the filesystem path of the alias target contains a trailing '/' character.
Understanding CVE-2018-19052
This CVE was published on November 7, 2018, and poses a security risk due to the path traversal vulnerability in Lighttpd version 1.4.50.
What is CVE-2018-19052?
CVE-2018-19052 is a vulnerability in the mod_alias_physical_handler component of Lighttpd, allowing unauthorized path traversal to a directory above the intended alias target.
The Impact of CVE-2018-19052
The vulnerability enables attackers to access sensitive directories or files outside the intended scope, potentially leading to unauthorized data disclosure or manipulation.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-19052
Lighttpd version 1.4.50 is susceptible to path traversal attacks due to improper handling of aliases.
Vulnerability Description
The issue lies in mod_alias_physical_handler in mod_alias.c, where a specific configuration mismatch allows for path traversal above the alias target.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Version: 1.4.50
- Systems using Lighttpd with a specific mod_alias configuration
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by crafting requests that manipulate the alias and filesystem path mismatch to navigate to unauthorized directories.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2018-19052, immediate steps and long-term security practices are recommended.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply patches or updates provided by the vendor promptly.
- Review and adjust mod_alias configurations to ensure proper handling of aliases.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and audit web server configurations for vulnerabilities.
- Implement access controls and restrictions to limit directory traversal risks.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security advisories and updates from Lighttpd.
- Keep the web server software up to date with the latest patches to mitigate known vulnerabilities.