CVE-2006-2278 in SaphpLesson
Summary
by MITRE
SaphpLesson 3.0 does not initialize array variables, which allows remote attackers to obtain the full path via an non-array (1) hrow parameter to (a) show.php or (b) index.php; the (2) Lsnrow parameter to (c) showcat.php; or the (3) rows parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-2278 affects SaphpLesson version 3.0, a web-based lesson management system that suffers from improper array variable initialization in multiple script files. This flaw represents a classic example of uninitialized variable exploitation that can lead to information disclosure vulnerabilities. The vulnerability specifically manifests when certain parameters are passed to the application without proper array initialization, creating predictable conditions that allow attackers to extract sensitive system information.
The technical flaw occurs in several key files including show.php, index.php, and showcat.php where the application fails to properly initialize array variables before processing user input. When an attacker supplies a non-array value to parameters such as hrow, Lsnrow, or rows, the application's failure to initialize these variables creates a condition where the underlying system path information becomes exposed. This occurs because the uninitialized arrays may contain memory addresses or other system-specific information that gets leaked to the attacker through the application's response handling.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows remote attackers to obtain the full server path structure of the affected system. This information disclosure can provide attackers with critical system layout details including directory structures, file paths, and potentially sensitive configuration information. The exposure of full paths can aid in subsequent attacks by providing attackers with precise knowledge of the system's file hierarchy, which may be used to plan more sophisticated exploitation techniques. The vulnerability affects multiple entry points within the application, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through different attack vectors.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-457, which describes the use of uninitialized variables, and demonstrates characteristics consistent with information disclosure vulnerabilities in web applications. From an attack perspective, this issue can be categorized under the ATT&CK framework as part of the credential access and defense evasion tactics, as the path disclosure can be used to bypass security controls and gain deeper understanding of the target system. The flaw essentially provides attackers with a reconnaissance tool that can be leveraged to identify potential attack surfaces and system weaknesses.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper input validation and variable initialization practices throughout the application code. Developers should ensure that all array variables are properly initialized before processing user input, particularly when dealing with parameters that may be passed from external sources. The recommended approach involves implementing explicit array initialization routines and input sanitization measures that prevent the propagation of uninitialized variables to the application's output. Additionally, implementing proper error handling and response management can help prevent information leakage. Regular code reviews and security testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other parts of the application, as this vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the application's security architecture that could affect other similar components.