Apache Tomcat Manager Security Misconfiguration Scanner

Apache Tomcat Manager is a web application used by system administrators to manage Tomcat servers. It provides functionalities like deploying, undeploying, and reloading applications, which are crucial in maintaining web applications. The tool is widely used in enterprise environments where managing multiple applications and server configurations is required. Apache Tomcat's robustness and compatibility with various Java specifications make it a preferred choice for developers. It's frequently adopted in production environments due to its reliability and vast community support. Being open-sourced enhances its usage, especially in web hosting and development sectors.

The vulnerability associated with Apache Tomcat Manager is a security misconfiguration. It occurs when the application is improperly configured, allowing unauthorized access through path normalization techniques. Attackers may exploit these misconfigurations to bypass authentication requirements and access sensitive control panels. Security misconfigurations are common due to default settings left unchanged and the complexity of understanding all configuration options. Apache Tomcat Manager must be tightly secured to prevent unauthorized users from executing administrative tasks. The vulnerability may go undetected if proper security audits are not conducted regularly.

In technical terms, the vulnerability leverages the application's handling of HTTP paths during normalization. Occurring due to incorrect path interpretation by the application's URL parser, it allows attackers to craft arbitrary URLs. Vulnerabilities are triggered when URLs like '/..;/path' are used, tricking the server into unintended resource access. The parameter '/..;/' bypasses conventional directory traversal protections by placing semicolons that disrupt expected path parsing. As a result, authentication layers can be circumvented, revealing admin panels such as the Manager or Host Manager interfaces. This method of exploitation is subtle and often not logged, complicating detection and mitigation efforts.

If exploited, these vulnerabilities can lead to unauthorized access to the administrative interface. Attackers can deploy or undeploy services, manipulate application configurations, or gain further access to the host system. This unauthorized entry increases the risk of installing malicious software, potentially leading to data breaches or disruptions of service. The server may also become part of a botnet if infiltrated, impacting broader network security. Compromised systems may offer attackers sensitive operational insights, risky in competitive or critical environments where confidentiality is paramount. Therefore, addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial in maintaining a secure infrastructure.

REFERENCES

• https://i.blackhat.com/us-18/Wed-August-8/us-18-Orange-Tsai-Breaking-Parser-Logic-Take-Your-Path-Normalization-Off-And-Pop-0days-Out-2.pdf