CVE-2004-1505 in JAF CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in Just Another Flat file (JAF) CMS 3.0RC allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files and possibly execute PHP code via a .. (dot dot) in the show parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1505 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Just Another Flat file content management system version 3.0RC. This weakness resides in the index.php script where the application fails to properly validate user input parameters, specifically the show parameter that controls which files are displayed. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization mechanisms that allow attackers to manipulate file path references through the use of directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e. This flaw enables unauthorized access to files outside the intended directory structure, potentially exposing sensitive system information and application components. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a fundamental security weakness in file access controls and input validation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious request containing directory traversal sequences in the show parameter of the index.php script. The CMS processes this input without proper validation, allowing the attacker to navigate through the file system hierarchy and access files that should remain protected. This can lead to the disclosure of sensitive information including configuration files, database credentials, user data, and potentially system files that contain PHP code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it may enable remote code execution if the application is configured to process PHP files in directories that are accessible through the traversal mechanism. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to the system and potentially escalate privileges or establish persistent access.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-1505 extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass potential system compromise and data breaches. Organizations using JAF CMS version 3.0RC are at risk of having their web applications compromised, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data and potential complete system takeover. The vulnerability affects the availability and integrity of the content management system, as attackers can manipulate the application to serve arbitrary content or execute malicious code. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in web applications where user input is processed without proper sanitization, creating a direct pathway for attackers to exploit the system. The vulnerability also impacts the confidentiality of data stored within the CMS, as it allows unauthorized access to files that contain sensitive information such as user credentials, application logic, and system configurations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve multiple layers of defensive measures to prevent unauthorized access and file traversal attacks. The primary recommendation is to implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that filter out directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e from all user-supplied parameters. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and file permissions that restrict access to sensitive system files and directories. The application should be configured to use a restricted directory for file access, ensuring that user input cannot traverse beyond the intended file system boundaries. Additionally, regular security updates and patches should be applied to address known vulnerabilities in content management systems. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments) as attackers may use such vulnerabilities to discover system files and potentially deliver malicious payloads through compromised CMS installations. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for and block suspicious directory traversal attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege when designing web applications to prevent unauthorized access to system resources.