Path Traversal in BioinfoMCP Upload Endpoint

Executive Summary

This vulnerability exists in the Upload function of the bioinfo_mcp_platform/app.py file in florensiawidjaja BioinfoMCP. It involves manipulation of the argument 'Name' which leads to a path traversal issue. This means an attacker can remotely exploit this flaw to access files and directories outside the intended upload directory.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Detection Guidance

This vulnerability can be detected by monitoring for unusual file uploads to the /upload endpoint of the BioinfoMCP platform, especially those containing directory traversal sequences or absolute paths in the filename field.

A practical way to test for this vulnerability is to attempt a crafted file upload using a command like curl that sets the filename to an absolute path or includes directory traversal characters.

Example command to test the vulnerability:

• curl -v -F "[email protected];filename=/tmp/bioinfomcp_poc.pdf" http://<target-host>/upload

If the file is written outside the intended uploads directory (e.g., /tmp), it indicates the presence of the path traversal vulnerability.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Impact Analysis

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to perform path traversal attacks, potentially accessing or modifying files outside the designated upload area. This can lead to unauthorized disclosure, modification, or deletion of sensitive data, compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the system.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Compliance Impact

The vulnerability allows arbitrary file write through path traversal in the upload endpoint, leading to high integrity risk and potential workflow poisoning.

Such a vulnerability could impact compliance with standards like GDPR and HIPAA by undermining data integrity and potentially enabling unauthorized modification or corruption of sensitive data or system files.

However, the provided information does not explicitly discuss compliance implications or specific regulatory impacts.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Mitigation Strategies

Immediate mitigation steps include restricting access to the BioinfoMCP platform to trusted users only, preventing untrusted users from accessing the upload endpoint.

Additionally, sanitize the filename input by stripping directory separators or using server-generated filenames to avoid path traversal.

Implementing filename sanitization functions such as werkzeug.utils.secure_filename() is recommended to ensure uploaded files are stored safely.

Also, consider adding regression tests to detect path traversal payloads and monitor file writes to detect suspicious activity.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0