CVE-2001-1011 in Site Server
Summary
by MITRE
index2.php in Mambo Site Server 3.0.0 through 3.0.5 allows remote attackers to gain Mambo administrator privileges by setting the PHPSESSID parameter and providing the appropriate administrator information in other parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-1011 represents a critical authentication bypass flaw in Mambo Site Server versions 3.0.0 through 3.0.5. This issue stems from improper session management and authentication validation mechanisms within the index2.php script, which serves as a central entry point for administrative functions. The vulnerability operates by exploiting weaknesses in how the application handles session identifiers and user authentication parameters, creating a pathway for unauthorized users to assume administrative privileges without proper authentication.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on manipulating the PHPSESSID parameter within HTTP requests to the vulnerable application. Attackers can construct malicious requests that include crafted session identifiers along with administrative user credentials, effectively bypassing the normal authentication process. This flaw falls under CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues, and specifically relates to CWE-306, which covers missing authentication checks. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the application's session management architecture where the system fails to properly validate session integrity and user authorization status.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows remote attackers to gain full administrative control over affected Mambo installations. Once exploited, attackers can modify website content, add or remove users, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access or local system privileges to exploit it, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. This type of vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and T1566 which covers credential harvesting through various attack vectors.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including updating to patched versions of Mambo Site Server, implementing proper session management controls, and conducting thorough security assessments of their web applications. The recommended approach involves strengthening authentication mechanisms, implementing proper session validation, and ensuring that all session identifiers are properly generated and validated. Additional defensive measures should include network segmentation, intrusion detection systems, and monitoring for suspicious authentication attempts. Given the age of this vulnerability and the specific versions affected, organizations should also consider migrating to more modern content management systems that have better security practices and regular security updates to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.