CVE-2004-1927 in TikiWiki
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the map feature (tiki-map.phtml) in Tiki CMS/Groupware (TikiWiki) 1.8.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to determine the existence of arbitrary files via .. (dot dot) sequences in the mapfile parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1927 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Tiki CMS/Groupware platform version 1.8.1 and earlier systems. This security weakness specifically affects the map feature implementation in the tiki-map.phtml component, where improper input validation allows malicious actors to exploit file path manipulation techniques. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to adequately sanitize user-supplied input parameters, particularly the mapfile parameter that accepts .. (dot dot) sequences for directory navigation.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates by enabling remote attackers to manipulate the mapfile parameter through directory traversal sequences that navigate beyond the intended directory boundaries. When the application processes these malformed input sequences without proper validation, it inadvertently allows access to arbitrary files within the server's file system. The attacker can exploit this weakness to determine the existence of files and directories that should remain protected, potentially leading to information disclosure and further exploitation opportunities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file enumeration, as it provides attackers with the capability to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially even execute arbitrary code depending on the server configuration and file permissions. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for passive reconnaissance activities where attackers can map out the file system structure without direct execution of malicious payloads, making it an ideal precursor for more sophisticated attacks. This flaw directly aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes directory traversal vulnerabilities as a common weakness in software applications where input validation is insufficient to prevent path manipulation attacks.
The security implications of CVE-2004-1927 are significant within the context of web application security frameworks and align with several ATT&CK techniques including T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1595 (Active Scanning). The vulnerability demonstrates how inadequate input sanitization can lead to privilege escalation opportunities and information gathering activities that form the foundation of advanced persistent threats. Organizations running affected Tiki CMS versions face substantial risk of unauthorized file access, potential data breaches, and system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation controls and proper parameter sanitization within the application's map feature. System administrators should upgrade to patched versions of Tiki CMS immediately, as the vulnerability affects versions through 1.8.1. Additionally, implementing proper access controls, restricting file system permissions, and deploying web application firewalls can provide additional defense layers. The remediation process should include thorough code review of all file path handling mechanisms and implementation of proper input validation techniques that prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed by the application. Organizations should also consider implementing security monitoring to detect suspicious file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts.