CVE-2006-0899 in Image Gallery Management System
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in 4Images 1.7.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to read and include arbitrary files via ".." (dot dot) sequences in the template parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/17/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-0899 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting 4Images version 1.7.1 and earlier. This security weakness resides within the index.php script where user input is improperly validated before being used to construct file paths. The vulnerability specifically impacts the template parameter handling mechanism, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file access through directory traversal sequences using ".." (dot dot) notation. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which classifies directory traversal attacks as a fundamental weakness in input validation that enables unauthorized access to files outside of intended directories.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious request containing directory traversal sequences in the template parameter. When the application processes this input without proper sanitization, it allows the attacker to navigate upward through the directory structure and access files that should remain protected. The flaw essentially permits arbitrary file inclusion and reading capabilities, potentially exposing sensitive system files, configuration data, or even executable code that could be leveraged for further compromise. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001, which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications to gain unauthorized access to system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to include and execute arbitrary files on the target system. This could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the installation of backdoors. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of 4Images, a web-based image gallery management system, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on this software for content management. Attackers could exploit this flaw to read sensitive configuration files, access user data, or even upload malicious code to establish persistent access to the affected system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the 4Images application to version 1.7.2 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for input validation. Organizations should implement proper input sanitization measures that validate and filter all user-supplied data before it is processed by the application. This includes implementing strict parameter validation for the template parameter and ensuring that directory traversal sequences are properly rejected or neutralized. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules to prevent such attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms in web applications, as outlined in security best practices and standards such as those defined by OWASP and NIST. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and systems within the organization's infrastructure.