MapProxy Improper File Process Scanner
This scanner detects the use of MapProxy Improper File Process in digital assets. Improper validation and processing of X-Forwarded headers in MapProxy allow attackers to construct file:// URLs that bypass access controls and read local files. Such vulnerabilities can expose sensitive system files like /etc/passwd and configuration files.
Short Info
Level
Single Scan
Single Scan
Can be used by
Asset Owner
Estimated Time
10 seconds
Time Interval
24 days 2 hours
Scan only one
Domain, Subdomain, IPv4
Toolbox
-
MapProxy is an open-source proxy for geospatial data used by developers and systems administrators who require caching, transformation, or access control for map services. It is often utilized by organizations for providing scalable map services that integrate various map sources into unified service interfaces. The software is typically deployed in environments where performance, service merging, and transformation capabilities are needed, such as geographical information systems (GIS) and location-based services. Target users include geospatial data providers and organizations managing geospatial content. Its primary purpose is to improve the speed and reliability of map service applications by proxying and caching geospatial data. Additionally, it allows for more efficient map distribution, reducing the load on origin servers.
Improper File Process vulnerabilities, like those detected by this scanner, arise from insecure handling of file-access protocols within applications such as MapProxy. These vulnerabilities allow attackers to exploit incorrect validation of user-supplied headers or input, enabling them to bypass access controls and read arbitrary files on the server. Typically, attackers leverage malleable headers (such as X-Forwarded) to input malicious URL schemes (like file://), which, if processed incorrectly by the application, can lead to exposure of sensitive data. The presence of such vulnerabilities signifies inadequate input handling and insufficient security controls in proxy configurations. Identifying these issues is crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of the data managed by applications like MapProxy.
In detail, this scanner targets vulnerabilities stemming from the mismanagement of X-Forwarded headers within MapProxy, where improperly validated headers allow URL construction in a manner that can access restricted files. The vulnerable endpoints typically listen for specific configuration processes involving the X-Forwarded-Proto or X-Forwarded-Host, which attackers manipulate to form requests allowing reading of local files like /etc/passwd. The vulnerability lies in inadequate checks of the URL scheme being requested, which malicious actors can exploit to access URL schemes pointing to file resources, bypassing restrictions designed to protect these resources. Such technical flaws in endpoint management offer a pathway to unauthorized file reads.
If exploited, this vulnerability could allow attackers to access highly sensitive files that contain critical system and user information. The theft or exposure of such data could lead to a range of negative consequences, including unauthorized system access, system configuration changes, or further attacks exploiting the disclosed information. Moreover, the exposure of system configuration files could reveal infrastructure details, creating pathways for more sophisticated attacks. The improper handling of file-access protocols may also cause severe data breaches, affecting the confidentiality and integrity of the data held by the affected systems, along with reputational and operational damage.
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