CVE-2000-1229 in Phorum
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Phorum 3.0.7 allows remote Phorum administrators to read arbitrary files via ".." (dot dot) sequences in the default .langfile name field in the Master Settings administrative function, which causes the file to be displayed in admin.php3.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/28/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-1229 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Phorum version 3.0.7, a widely used web-based discussion forum application. This weakness specifically targets the administrative interface of the platform, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on this software for community engagement and communication. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation in the Master Settings administrative function, where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data before processing file operations. The flaw manifests when administrators configure the default language file name field, which accepts arbitrary input including directory traversal sequences such as ".." or dot dot combinations. This particular weakness falls under the category of CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the .langfile name field within the administrative configuration interface. When a remote Phorum administrator submits a specially crafted filename containing directory traversal sequences, the application processes these inputs without adequate sanitization, allowing the system to interpret and resolve the path beyond the intended directory boundaries. The administrative function admin.php3 becomes the execution point where the maliciously constructed path is processed, ultimately enabling access to arbitrary files on the server filesystem. This vulnerability specifically affects the language file handling mechanism, where the application's configuration allows for dynamic file inclusion based on user input without proper validation or restriction of the file path. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages legitimate administrative privileges, making it difficult to detect and trace through standard security monitoring systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides attackers with the ability to potentially read sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially even database credentials or application source code. An attacker with administrative access could exploit this flaw to gain insights into the application's internal structure, identify other potential vulnerabilities, or extract confidential information that could be used for further exploitation. The vulnerability essentially allows for arbitrary file reading capabilities, which can lead to complete system compromise if sensitive files such as configuration files containing database passwords or application source code are accessible. This type of vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality and integrity of the affected system, as it provides unauthorized access to data that should remain protected within the application's designated boundaries.
Organizations utilizing Phorum 3.0.7 should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to a patched version of the software, as this vulnerability was addressed in subsequent releases. The recommended approach involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed within file path operations. Security measures should include restricting administrative access to only trusted individuals and implementing network-level controls to limit access to administrative interfaces. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of validating all user inputs, particularly those used in file system operations, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, where path traversal attacks can be used to execute arbitrary code through file inclusion vulnerabilities. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular security assessments and maintain up-to-date patch management procedures to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities in web applications.