CVE-2021-33354:Directory Traversal vulnerability in htmly before 2.8.1 allows attackers to delete arbitrary files.

splash
Back

Description Preview

A directory traversal vulnerability (CWE-22) was discovered in htmly versions before 2.8.1. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to perform arbitrary file deletions by manipulating the file parameter with directory traversal sequences. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker could potentially delete critical system files, leading to denial of service or further system compromise.

Overview

The vulnerability exists in htmly, a flat-file CMS and blog platform. The application fails to properly validate user input in the file parameter, allowing attackers to use path traversal sequences (such as "../") to reference files outside the intended directory. This can be exploited to delete arbitrary files on the server's filesystem, potentially including critical system files or configuration files. The impact could range from denial of service to possible system compromise depending on which files are deleted.

Remediation

To remediate this vulnerability, users should:

  1. Update htmly to version 2.8.1 or later, which contains fixes for this vulnerability.
  2. If immediate updating is not possible, implement input validation to reject file paths containing directory traversal sequences.
  3. Apply the principle of least privilege to the web server process, ensuring it only has access to necessary files and directories.
  4. Consider implementing a web application firewall (WAF) that can detect and block directory traversal attempts.
  5. Regularly back up important files to minimize the impact of any successful exploitation.

References

  1. GitHub Issue: https://github.com/danpros/htmly/issues/462
  2. CWE-22: Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal') - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/22.html
  3. OWASP Path Traversal - https://owasp.org/www-community/attacks/Path_Traversal

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

Let's talk!

background