Directory Traversal Definition:
Directory Traversal, also known as path traversal, is a security Vulnerability that allows an attacker to access files and directories outside the intended scope of a web application's root directory. By manipulating input paths, attackers can traverse the file system hierarchy, potentially gaining access to sensitive data, application source code, configuration files, or system files.
What is Directory Traversal?
Directory Traversal vulnerabilities occur when user input is used to construct file paths without proper validation or sanitisation. Attackers can Exploit this weakness by submitting input containing special sequences, such as '../', to navigate to parent directories and access restricted files. This can lead to unauthorised information disclosure and system compromise.
Why is Directory Traversal important?
The purpose of Directory Traversal attacks is to gain access to files and data that should not be accessible through normal means. Attackers may target configuration files containing credentials, sensitive application files, or system files to further compromise the target environment. These attacks can lead to Data Breaches, Privilege Escalation, and other security issues.
How does Directory Traversal work?
Directory Traversal attacks are executed by injecting special character sequences (e.g., '../') into user input fields that specify file paths. If the application does not validate or sanitise the input, the attacker can traverse directories and access files outside the intended directory scope. Mitigation involves proper input validation, restricting input values, using secure file access APIs, and configuring Web Servers to prevent Directory Traversal attempts.
Directory Traversal Examples:
Examples of Directory Traversal include manipulating a URL parameter in a web application to access '/etc/passwd' on a Unix-based system or retrieving application source code files by navigating to '../' directories. Insecure handling of file uploads or downloads can also expose applications to Directory Traversal risks.
Directory Traversal Issues:
Directory Traversal vulnerabilities pose significant security risks as they can lead to unauthorised file access and compromise of sensitive data. To mitigate these risks, developers should implement strict input validation and sanitisation, avoid direct use of user input in file paths, and ensure Web Server configurations restrict file access appropriately.
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