CVE-2001-0648 in PHProjekt
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in PHProjekt 2.1 and earlier allows a remote attacker to conduct unauthorized activities via a dot dot (..) attack on the file module.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-0648 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting PHProjekt version 2.1 and earlier systems. This security weakness resides within the file module of the application and enables malicious actors to manipulate file access paths through the use of dot dot sequences. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied file path parameters, allowing attackers to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access restricted files or execute unauthorized operations.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates by exploiting the absence of proper path validation checks within the application's file handling routines. When PHProjekt processes file requests, it does not adequately verify or sanitize the input parameters that specify file locations, creating an opportunity for attackers to append directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e to access files outside the designated web root or application directory. The flaw specifically affects the file module, which handles various file operations including file uploads, downloads, and access requests, making it a prime target for exploitation. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it enables attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code, read sensitive configuration files, access database credentials, or even compromise the entire system. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to bypass authentication mechanisms, access administrative interfaces, or retrieve confidential data that should remain protected. The attack surface is particularly concerning because PHProjekt was commonly used for project management and collaboration, making it a valuable target for attackers seeking to compromise development environments or corporate networks. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers directory and file searches, and T1566, covering credential access through various means including path traversal attacks that can lead to privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2001-0648 require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures within the PHProjekt application. Organizations should upgrade to PHProjekt versions 2.2 or later, where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper path validation mechanisms. The recommended approach includes implementing strict input filtering that rejects or removes directory traversal sequences from file path parameters, enforcing proper access controls that limit file system access to authorized directories only, and implementing secure coding practices that validate all user-supplied input before processing. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security reviews of their PHProjekt installations, implement network segmentation to limit access to affected systems, and establish monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a classic example of why proper input validation and secure coding practices are essential components of application security, particularly in web applications that handle file operations.