Critical Vulnerability in mini-httpd: Log File Injection Risk
Summary
UBUNTU-CVE-2009-4490: mini_httpd 1.19 writes data to a log file without sanitizing non-printable characters, which might allow remote attackers to modify a window's title, or possibly execute arbitrary commands or overwrite files, via an HTTP... Affects mini-httpd versions 1.19-9.3 – 1.19-9.3ubuntu0.1~esm1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
mini-httpd is a lightweight HTTP server designed for simplicity and efficiency. It is commonly used in various applications due to its minimal resource footprint. However, certain versions of mini-httpd are vulnerable to a log file injection issue, which can be exploited by attackers to manipulate system behavior or execute arbitrary commands.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4490 affects mini_httpd versions prior to the patched releases. It arises from the server's failure to sanitize non-printable characters when writing to log files. This oversight allows remote attackers to craft HTTP requests containing escape sequences that can alter window titles, execute commands, or overwrite files on the server. The potential ramifications include unauthorized access and system compromise, making it critical for users to address this vulnerability promptly.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can restrict access to the mini-httpd server or implement input validation on HTTP requests to mitigate the risk of exploitation until the package can be updated.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in mini-httpd poses significant risks due to its ability to allow remote command execution and file manipulation. It is crucial for users to update to the latest patched versions of the package to safeguard their systems. Implementing workarounds can provide temporary relief, but a permanent fix through updates is essential.
See every vulnerability recorded for mini-httpd →
FAQ
CVE-2009-4490 is a vulnerability in mini-httpd that allows remote attackers to inject non-printable characters into log files, potentially leading to command execution or file overwriting.
Versions of mini-httpd prior to the patched releases, including 1.19, 1.23, and 1.30, are affected by this vulnerability.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By uploading your manifest file, such as package-lock.json, you can check for vulnerabilities without needing to install any software.
Failing to address this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, and potential system compromise, putting your application and data at risk.
Yes, you can restrict access to the server or implement input validation on HTTP requests as a temporary measure until the package is updated.
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for mini-httpd.
