Crawlab Arbitrary File Read Scanner

Crawlab is a web crawler management platform used by developers and data scientists to facilitate the process of creating and managing web crawlers. It allows users to deploy, monitor, and manage their crawlers across multiple nodes with a simple and intuitive interface. The software is popular in data-driven environments for automating web scraping tasks and managing large volumes of data. It is often used in research, marketing, and by businesses that require data aggregation from multiple sources. Crawlab supports a wide range of programming languages, including Python, making it adaptable to different project needs. With its scalability and task automation capabilities, Crawlab has become a go-to solution for professionals dealing with extensive web scraping needs.

The arbitrary file read vulnerability in Crawlab allows a potential attacker to read sensitive files from the server where Crawlab is deployed. This type of vulnerability occurs when the software does not sufficiently validate user input, allowing unauthorized access to files beyond the intended directory. This could lead to exposure of sensitive data, such as configuration files or user information, stored on the server. Exploiting this flaw could also facilitate further attacks on the server by disclosing information that aids in compromising the system. It is crucial to address such vulnerabilities to maintain data integrity and confidentiality.

Technically, the vulnerability is exploited via a specially crafted GET request to the endpoint '/api/file' with a 'path' parameter that includes directory traversal sequences. This parameter allows unauthorized file reading by navigating outside the permitted folder to access files like '/etc/passwd'. The response containing sensitive file content indicates successful exploitation. The code does not adequately restrict the paths or validate the user inputs, leading to this vulnerability. Corrective measures should focus on validating and sanitizing input paths to prevent directory traversal outside the intended directories.

If this vulnerability is exploited, malicious individuals could gain access to critical system files, potentially compromising the entire server environment. Unauthorized reading of files like '/etc/passwd' can lead to disclosure of user accounts and system configurations, raising the risk of privilege escalation and unauthorized access. Exposure of sensitive data might lead to data breaches, loss of intellectual property, and violate data protection regulations. The exploitation can also serve as a stepping stone for further attacks, including system commandeering and the deployment of malicious software.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/Threekiii/Awesome-POC/blob/master/Web%E5%BA%94%E7%94%A8%E6%BC%8F%E6%B4%9E/Crawlab%20file%20%E4%BB%BB%E6%84%8F%E6%96%87%E4%BB%B6%E8%AF%BB%E5%8F%96%E6%BC%8F%E6%B4%9E.md