CVE-2006-0878 in Noahs Classifieds
Summary
by MITRE
Noah s Classifieds 1.3 allows remote attackers to obtain the installation path via a direct request to include files, as demonstrated by classifieds/gorum/category.php.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/04/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-0878 affects Noah s Classifieds version 1.3, representing a critical path traversal and information disclosure flaw that enables remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive system information. This vulnerability manifests through direct requests to include files within the application's directory structure, specifically demonstrating the issue in the classifieds/gorum/category.php file. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and improper file inclusion mechanisms that fail to sanitize user-supplied parameters before using them in file operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize input parameters that are used in include or require statements. When an attacker crafts a malicious request to category.php, the application processes the input without sufficient validation, allowing the attacker to manipulate the file inclusion process and potentially access arbitrary files on the server. This represents a classic case of insecure file handling that aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-23 Relative Path Traversal vulnerabilities. The flaw operates at the intersection of file inclusion vulnerabilities and information disclosure issues, creating a pathway for attackers to not only access system files but also potentially obtain critical installation paths that could aid in further exploitation attempts.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using Noah s Classifieds 1.3 as it provides attackers with information that could be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks. The disclosure of installation paths can reveal directory structures, potentially exposing sensitive configuration files or other system components that might be accessible through the same vulnerability. This information disclosure capability makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can serve as a reconnaissance tool for attackers planning more extensive exploitation campaigns. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure since the ability to traverse directories can lead to arbitrary code execution, data theft, or system compromise. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 File and Directory Discovery and T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, as attackers can use the disclosed information to plan further attacks.
The exploitation of this vulnerability requires minimal technical expertise and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous in environments where such applications are exposed to the internet. Attackers can systematically probe the application to discover valid file paths and potentially identify other vulnerable components within the same application or related systems. Organizations should consider implementing input validation controls, proper file inclusion mechanisms, and access controls to prevent unauthorized file access. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping applications updated and patched, as this flaw was likely addressed in subsequent versions of the software. Security measures such as web application firewalls, input sanitization, and proper file access controls should be implemented to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other applications. This case demonstrates how seemingly simple input validation flaws can create significant security risks and underscores the critical need for secure coding practices and comprehensive security testing throughout the software development lifecycle.