CVE-2008-2370
CVE-2008-2370 is a Path Traversal vulnerability in apache tomcat. 2 public exploit references exist, so weaponization risk is real. O3 Security detects and blocks CVE-2008-2370 exploitation at runtime via eBPF exploit-chain detection and L7 egress monitoring, even on unpatched systems.
Apache Tomcat 4.1.0 through 4.1.37, 5.5.0 through 5.5.26, and 6.0.0 through 6.0.16, when a RequestDispatcher is used, performs path normalization before removing the query string from…
Description
Apache Tomcat 4.1.0 through 4.1.37, 5.5.0 through 5.5.26, and 6.0.0 through 6.0.16, when a RequestDispatcher is used, performs path normalization before removing the query string from the URI, which allows remote attackers to conduct directory traversal attacks and read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in a request parameter.
Affected Products
tomcatapacheResearch use only. For defensive security, authorized penetration testing, and academic research only. Never execute exploit code against systems without explicit written authorization.
Apache Tomcat 6.0.16 - 'RequestDispatcher' Information Disclosure
by Stefano Di Paola · Aug 1, 2008
Detection & mitigation playbook
Vendor / applianceDetect
Inventory every apache tomcat deployment and check each version against the affected-products list above. Because the exploit targets the running system rather than your application code, also watch for exploitation at the network and runtime layer — O3 flags the exploit behaviour from runtime telemetry and egress traffic even before a vulnerable build is confirmed.
Remediation status
No patch has shipped for CVE-2008-2370 yet — track the apache tomcat advisory for a fixed release and apply the workarounds below in the meantime.
Mitigate without a patch
Cut exposure now: restrict the management/admin interface to trusted networks, segment the device, and apply the vendor's recommended configuration mitigations and any WAF/IPS signature. O3's runtime protection blocks the exploit chain at execution, holding the line on unpatched or end-of-life systems until you can patch.
How O3 protects you
O3 detects and blocks CVE-2008-2370 exploitation at runtime: eBPF exploit-chain detection, plus L7 egress monitoring that catches the post-exploitation callback and severs the attacker's outbound channel.
Tailored to CVE-2008-2370. Runtime protection reduces exposure until a permanent patch is applied and verified — it complements patching, it doesn't replace it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CVE-2008-2370 being exploited in your environment?
O3's eBPF runtime sensors and L7 egress monitoring detect and block the CVE-2008-2370 exploit chain at execution — protecting unpatched and end-of-life systems until the vendor patch is applied.