CVE-2005-0795 in Hola
Summary
by MITRE
HolaCMS 1.4.9 does not restrict file access to the holaDB/votes directory, which allows remote attackers to overwrite arbitrary files via a modified vote_filename parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0795 affects HolaCMS version 1.4.9 and represents a critical file access control flaw that undermines the integrity of the content management system. This issue stems from insufficient input validation and directory traversal protection mechanisms within the voting functionality of the platform. The vulnerability specifically manifests in the holaDB/votes directory where the application fails to properly restrict file access permissions, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to manipulate file operations through crafted input parameters.
The technical flaw resides in the vote_filename parameter handling within the voting module of HolaCMS. When attackers submit a modified vote_filename parameter, the system does not adequately validate or sanitize the input before processing file operations. This lack of proper input validation creates a path traversal vulnerability that enables attackers to specify arbitrary file paths within the holaDB/votes directory structure. The vulnerability operates under CWE-22 which classifies it as Path Traversal, specifically involving directory traversal attacks where malicious users can access files outside of intended directories. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to bypass normal file access controls and directly manipulate the file system through the voting interface.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to overwrite arbitrary files within the targeted directory structure, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The ability to overwrite files creates opportunities for attackers to inject malicious code, corrupt system files, or establish persistent backdoors within the application environment. This vulnerability directly enables several attack patterns from the MITRE ATT&CK framework including privilege escalation through file system manipulation and persistence mechanisms. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur without requiring physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-0795 should focus on implementing proper input validation and access control measures within the application code. The primary defense involves sanitizing all user-provided input parameters, particularly those used in file operations, to prevent directory traversal attempts. Implementing strict path validation that ensures file operations occur only within designated directories will effectively prevent unauthorized file access. Additionally, the system should enforce proper file permissions and access controls that limit write access to sensitive directories. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious parameter modifications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and input validation as outlined in OWASP Top 10 security guidelines, particularly focusing on preventing path traversal attacks and ensuring proper authorization controls for file system operations. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components that may be susceptible to similar file access control issues.