Path Manipulation Definition:
Path Manipulation is a security Vulnerability that occurs when user input is used to construct file or directory paths without proper validation. This can allow attackers to access or modify files and directories outside the intended scope, potentially leading to unauthorised data access, data modification, or system compromise.
What is Path Manipulation?
In Path Manipulation attacks, malicious input is used to alter or traverse file paths, such as by adding '../' sequences (known as Directory Traversal) to access parent directories. If the input is not properly validated, attackers can read, modify, or delete files that should be inaccessible. This can lead to information disclosure, code execution, or further compromise of the affected system.
Why is Path Manipulation important?
The purpose of Path Manipulation from an attacker's perspective is to Exploit improper input handling to gain unauthorised access to files or system functionality. By manipulating paths, attackers can bypass security controls, access sensitive data, or execute malicious code on the target system.
How does Path Manipulation work?
Path Manipulation vulnerabilities are typically Exploited by injecting user input into file paths. For example, an attacker may provide input containing traversal sequences, such as '../../../etc/passwd,' to access sensitive system files. To prevent Path Manipulation, input must be properly sanitised and validated, and the application should enforce strict access controls and use safe functions for file handling.
Path Manipulation Examples:
Examples of Path Manipulation include Exploiting web applications that use user input to generate file paths without validation, allowing attackers to access restricted files. Another example is manipulating file upload paths to overwrite system files or upload malicious code. Proper input validation and directory restrictions help prevent such attacks.
Path Manipulation Issues:
Path Manipulation vulnerabilities can lead to severe security risks, such as Data Breaches and remote code execution. To mitigate these risks, organisations should validate user input, enforce access controls on file systems, and use secure coding practices. Developers should avoid constructing file paths directly from untrusted input and use platform-provided functions that ensure safe path handling.
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