gSOAP Local File Inclusion Scanner

gSOAP is a software development toolkit that provides tools for developing XML web services and SOAP protocols. It is widely used by developers for its efficiency in processing SOAP messages and ease of integration into C/C++ applications. Often used in embedded devices and systems, gSOAP allows developers to create secure and interoperable web services. The software is employed by businesses that require efficient communication protocols for their applications in sectors such as telecommunications, industrial automation, and consumer electronics. Due to its broad scope and application, gSOAP is a critical component in any enterprise or project that relies heavily on SOAP-based web services for data transmission. Its fundamental role is in facilitating seamless communication between diverse system components over a network.

The Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability allows an attacker to trick a system into executing files from a local system path. This particular vulnerability occurs when user input is improperly sanitized, enabling the inclusion of local files within an application. Attackers exploit this by manipulating paths, often utilizing directory traversal techniques to gain unauthorized access to local files. This potentially exposes sensitive application or server data, leading to further malicious activities. It is a common exploitation technique used to read files from the server that should otherwise be protected, facilitating broader system access and potential data theft. LFI vulnerabilities are a significant risk because they can compromise system confidentiality and integrity.

The gSOAP Local File Inclusion vulnerability in version 2.8 allows attackers to include local files via a crafted input string. The critical weak points involve endpoints that accept user input for file paths without sufficient validation. This can be exploited by appending directory traversal sequences like `../../` to browse filesystem directories recursively. A specific parameter found in HTTP requests is potentially vulnerable, allowing end-users to infer or expose internal files on the server. The test request typically uses well-known files such as `/etc/passwd` to confirm the exposure of system files. Once these critical files are accessed, an attacker can utilize the information for further exploitation or launch additional attacks on the server.

If exploited, the LFI vulnerability in gSOAP can lead to the exposure of sensitive data such as application configurations, passwords, or other confidential data stored on the server. This could result in unauthorized access and enable strategic attacks, such as escalating privileges or deploying malicious scripts onto the server. Additionally, understanding the file system structure through an LFI attack could help adversaries in planning more sophisticated and harmful attacks, causing potential service disruptions. Data theft, system breaches, and, in worse cases, server takeovers are possible outcomes of a successful exploitation. Businesses may face financial and reputational damage if private data is leaked due to this vulnerability.

REFERENCES

• https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/47653