CVE-2006-1594 in Claroline
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in document/rqmkhtml.php in Claroline 1.7.4 and earlier allow remote attackers to use ".." (dot dot) sequences to (1) read arbitrary files via the file parameter in a rqEditHtml command to document/rqmkhtml.php or (2) execute arbitrary code via the includePath parameter to learnPath/include/scormExport.inc.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-1594 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting Claroline 1.7.4 and earlier versions. This vulnerability manifests in two distinct attack vectors within the document management subsystem of the educational platform. The primary issue resides in the document/rqmkhtml.php script which fails to properly validate user input parameters, specifically the file parameter used in rqEditHtml commands and the includePath parameter within learnPath/include/scormExport.inc.php. These weaknesses enable remote attackers to manipulate file paths through directory traversal sequences using the ".." dot dot notation commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious requests that leverage the directory traversal sequences to access files outside the intended directory structure. In the first scenario, the file parameter in the rqEditHtml command allows attackers to specify arbitrary file paths that bypass normal access controls, enabling them to read sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, or other system resources that should remain protected. The second attack vector through the includePath parameter in scormExport.inc.php presents a more severe risk as it allows for arbitrary code execution, potentially enabling attackers to inject malicious code into the system and gain full control over the affected server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage the file reading capability to extract sensitive configuration data, user credentials, or application source code that could reveal additional attack vectors. The code execution component transforms this vulnerability from a mere data exposure issue into a full system compromise scenario where attackers can establish persistent access, install backdoors, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22 Directory Traversal and CWE-74 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component, both of which are categorized under the Software Fault Patterns taxonomy.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter for code execution and T1566 Phishing for initial access. The attack surface is particularly concerning in educational environments where Claroline systems may contain sensitive student data, academic records, or institutional information. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence to exploit these flaws, making them particularly dangerous in cloud-based or internet-facing deployments. Organizations using affected versions should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, proper parameter sanitization, and access control restrictions to prevent unauthorized file access and code execution.
The remediation approach for this vulnerability requires immediate patching of the Claroline platform to versions that address the directory traversal flaws. System administrators should also implement proper input validation mechanisms that filter or reject directory traversal sequences in all user-supplied parameters. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of vulnerable components. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious directory traversal patterns can provide additional layers of defense. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing privilege escalation and unauthorized access to system resources. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and ensure that all software components properly validate user input to prevent exploitation of similar path traversal attacks.