Name: Local File Inclusion - Linux Scanner

Local File Inclusion (LFI) is a vulnerability commonly found in web applications, including those running on Linux servers, where an attacker can trick the server into running or exposing files stored on it. This scanner is designed for use by security teams or system administrators to identify and mitigate such vulnerabilities in their systems. LFI vulnerabilities are often found in applications that improperly handle user input, resulting in path traversal to critical files like /etc/passwd. The purpose of this scanner is to detect these vulnerabilities to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive data. By allowing attackers to gain insight into the server's file system, LFI can serve as a starting point for further attack vectors. This tool is crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of Linux environments.

Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerabilities allow attackers to include files on a server through a web browser. These files can be accessed through improper handling of user-supplied input, which manipulates file paths in the application. This occurs when applications use user input to construct file paths without proper validation, allowing traversal attacks. LFI can potentially lead to the exposure of sensitive information, including configuration files and passwords. Attackers exploit this by manipulating the input in a way that the file paths point to unintended local files. Understanding LFI is essential for developing strategies to detect and fix these security gaps.

The LFI vulnerability operates by exploiting application-level path traversal due to inadequate input validation. Attackers use techniques like inserting '../' sequences into input fields, which can make the application read a file outside of the intended directory. For example, passing a URL encoded input like /../../etc/passwd can make the application reveal the content of the passwd file. Common vulnerable endpoints include URL query parameters that directly access files. Parameters not sanitized for path traversal typically result in these vulnerabilities. An ideal LFI scanner tests multiple variations of path traversal inputs to detect potential weaknesses. Identifying endpoints vulnerable to such inputs is critical in securing applications.

When exploited, LFI vulnerabilities can lead to severe consequences such as full access to the server's file system, which might include sensitive user data. If an attacker accesses files like /etc/passwd, it can lead to further escalation attacks like privilege escalation. LFI vulnerabilities can also expose configuration files containing database credentials or other sensitive information. In some cases, LFI could potentially lead to Remote Code Execution if certain files are included that allow code execution. Additionally, attackers might access log files or system files that reveal information about the server's environment or users. The impact of LFI is far-reaching, leading to both data compromises and potential downtime.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/swisskyrepo/PayloadsAllTheThings/blob/master/Directory%20Traversal/Intruder/directory_traversal.txt
• https://github.com/swisskyrepo/PayloadsAllTheThings/tree/master/File%20Inclusion