Description
internetarchive is a Python and Command-Line Interface to Archive.org In versions 5.5.0 and below, there is a directory traversal (path traversal) vulnerability in the File.download() method of the internetarchive library. The file.download() method does not properly sanitize user-supplied filenames or validate the final download path. A maliciously crafted filename could contain path traversal sequences (e.g., ../../../../windows/system32/file.txt) or illegal characters that, when processed, would cause the file to be written outside of the intended target directory. An attacker could potentially overwrite critical system files or application configuration files, leading to a denial of service, privilege escalation, or remote code execution, depending on the context in which the library is used. The vulnerability is particularly critical for users on Windows systems, but all operating systems are affected. This issue is fixed in version 5.5.1.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-27084
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability described in EUVD-2025-27084 pertains to a directory traversal (path traversal) issue in the File.download() method of the internetarchive library. This vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate file paths, potentially leading to unauthorized file access, overwriting critical system files, or executing arbitrary code. The severity of this vulnerability is rated with a CVSS Base Score of 9.4, indicating a critical risk. The CVSS vector CVSS:4.0/AV:N/AC:L/AT:N/PR:N/UI:P/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:H/SI:H/SA:H highlights the following characteristics:
- Attack Vector (AV): Network (N) - The vulnerability can be exploited remotely over the network.
- Attack Complexity (AC): Low (L) - The attack requires minimal skill and resources.
- Authentication (AT): None (N) - No authentication is required to exploit the vulnerability.
- Privileges Required (PR): None (N) - No special privileges are needed.
- User Interaction (UI): Physical (P) - Some form of user interaction is required.
- Confidentiality (VC), Integrity (VI), Availability (VA), Scope Change (SC), Scope Integrity (SI), Scope Availability (SA): High (H) - The vulnerability has a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, and can affect other security scopes.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
The primary attack vector involves manipulating the filename input to the File.download() method. An attacker could craft a filename containing path traversal sequences (e.g., ../../../../windows/system32/file.txt) to navigate out of the intended directory and access or overwrite files in other directories. Potential exploitation methods include:
- Overwriting Critical System Files: An attacker could overwrite system files, leading to denial of service or system instability.
- Privilege Escalation: By overwriting configuration files or executing malicious code, an attacker could gain elevated privileges.
- Remote Code Execution: If the application processes the downloaded file, an attacker could inject malicious code to be executed.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
The vulnerability affects all versions of the internetarchive library up to and including version 5.5.0. The issue is particularly critical for Windows systems but affects all operating systems. The vulnerability is fixed in version 5.5.1.
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
To mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability, the following strategies are recommended:
- Update to the Latest Version: Upgrade the
internetarchivelibrary to version 5.5.1 or later, which includes the fix for this vulnerability. - Input Validation: Implement robust input validation to sanitize and validate filenames and paths.
- Least Privilege Principle: Run the application with the least privileges necessary to minimize the impact of a successful exploit.
- Monitoring and Logging: Implement monitoring and logging to detect and respond to any suspicious file access or modification attempts.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to organizations and individuals using the internetarchive library, particularly those in the European Union. The potential for remote code execution and privilege escalation could lead to data breaches, service disruptions, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. This underscores the importance of timely patching and adherence to best practices in software development and deployment.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
- Vulnerability Type: Directory Traversal (Path Traversal)
- Affected Method:
File.download()in theinternetarchivelibrary - Root Cause: Insufficient sanitization and validation of user-supplied filenames
- Exploitation: Crafted filenames containing path traversal sequences
- Impact: Potential overwriting of critical system files, privilege escalation, and remote code execution
- Mitigation: Upgrade to version 5.5.1, implement input validation, and follow the least privilege principle
References
Conclusion
The directory traversal vulnerability in the internetarchive library is a critical issue that requires immediate attention. Organizations should prioritize updating to the patched version and implementing additional security measures to protect against potential exploitation. The European cybersecurity landscape must remain vigilant against such vulnerabilities to safeguard digital assets and maintain trust in digital services.