CVE-2005-2686 in SaveWebPortal
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in SaveWebPortal 3.4 allows remote attackers to include arbitrary files and execute arbitrary local PHP programs via ".." sequences in the (1) SITE_Path parameter to menu_dx.php or (2) CONTENTS_Dir parameter to menu_sx.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2686 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in SaveWebPortal version 3.4 that exposes the application to remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the web application's file inclusion processes, specifically affecting two distinct endpoints: menu_dx.php and menu_sx.php. The flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate file path parameters through the use of directory traversal sequences such as ".." to navigate outside the intended directory structures and access arbitrary files on the server filesystem.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper sanitization in the SITE_Path parameter of menu_dx.php and the CONTENTS_Dir parameter of menu_sx.php. When these parameters receive input containing directory traversal sequences, the application fails to validate or sanitize the paths before using them in file inclusion operations. This allows attackers to construct malicious paths that can traverse directories and access sensitive files including configuration files, system files, or potentially execute PHP code directly on the server. The vulnerability specifically targets the application's file inclusion mechanisms, which are commonly used for dynamic content rendering and navigation within web portals.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations utilizing SaveWebPortal 3.4 as it enables remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying server infrastructure. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, data theft, or the deployment of backdoors and additional malware. The attack vector requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are accessible from the internet. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple file access to potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code, effectively providing them with shell-like access to the server environment.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for "Server Software Component" and T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP" in the context of remote code execution. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The recommended defensive measures include implementing proper path validation, restricting file access permissions, and applying the latest security patches from the vendor. Additionally, network segmentation and web application firewalls should be deployed to limit exposure and detect potential exploitation attempts.