Apache httpd Config Exposure Scanner

Apache httpd is a widely used web server software that powers a significant portion of the internet. It is utilized by organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to large enterprises, to host websites and web applications. The software is known for its flexibility, performance, and support for various modules, which extend its functionality. Apache httpd is open source, making it accessible for developers to customize and optimize based on their needs. It is often preferred in environments where reliability and security are paramount, such as in e-commerce and content delivery networks. The ease of handling large volumes of concurrent connections makes Apache httpd a staple in web hosting solutions.

Config Exposure is a vulnerability where sensitive configuration files are accessible to unauthorized users. This weakness can lead to a disclosure of crucial system information that shouldn't be publicly available. Unauthorized access to configuration files like httpd.conf can expose internal paths, modules used, and potentially weak security settings. Without proper access controls, such information could aid an attacker in exploiting further vulnerabilities. Detecting this vulnerability is critical to ensure that sensitive configuration information remains secure and inaccessible. Organizations need to be vigilant in protecting their configuration files to prevent unauthorized access and potential data breaches.

The vulnerability details involve the exposure of the Apache httpd configuration file, typically found at paths like "/httpd.conf". This file may contain directives and settings that control the behavior of the web server. When accessible, intruders may gain insights into the server's modules, document root, and directory structures. The scanning process attempts to identify this file by searching for keywords such as "LoadModule" in the responses, along with checking for a 200 HTTP status code that indicates successful retrieval. Ensuring that this file is not public is crucial, as it can be exploited to understand server setup and exploit other weaknesses.

When config exposure vulnerabilities are exploited, attackers can gather sensitive information about the server environment. They may leverage this insight to conduct further attacks such as directory traversal, remote code execution, or the discovery of unsecured endpoints. Understanding the modules and directives used can assist attackers in crafting targeted attacks leading to significant security breaches. Compromised servers can result in downtime, data theft, and damage to an organization's reputation and data integrity.

REFERENCES

• https://httpd.apache.org/docs/current/configuring.html