CVE-2006-6877 in 3editor CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in Matteo Lucarelli 3editor CMS 0.42 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to include arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-6877 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Matteo Lucarelli 3editor CMS version 0.42 and earlier implementations. This security weakness specifically targets the index.php script where user-supplied input is not properly validated or sanitized before being used in file inclusion operations. The vulnerability becomes exploitable when the PHP configuration parameter register_globals is enabled, creating a dangerous condition where external parameters can directly influence the global namespace and thereby affect application behavior. The attack vector involves manipulating the page parameter through directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation, which allows malicious actors to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary files on the server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation mechanisms within the CMS core functionality. When register_globals is enabled, the application fails to adequately sanitize the page parameter that is passed to the index.php script, creating a scenario where attacker-controlled input can manipulate the file inclusion process. This flaw directly maps to CWE-22, which defines the weakness of Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive files, configuration data, or system resources that should remain protected within the CMS environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques. Attackers can leverage this directory traversal capability to include malicious files, execute arbitrary code, or obtain sensitive information such as database credentials, user authentication details, or server configuration files. The implications are particularly severe in environments where the CMS is deployed with register_globals enabled, as this configuration setting inherently weakens the application's security posture by allowing external parameters to influence global variables. This vulnerability can also facilitate privilege escalation attacks, where an attacker might gain elevated access rights within the CMS, potentially leading to full administrative control over the affected web application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-6877 should prioritize immediate remediation through software updates and configuration hardening. Organizations must upgrade to a patched version of the Matteo Lucarelli 3editor CMS that addresses this vulnerability through proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Additionally, the register_globals directive should be disabled in all PHP configurations to prevent the exploitation vector that makes this vulnerability possible. Implementing proper input validation techniques, including whitelisting acceptable parameters and using secure file inclusion methods, will significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls can provide additional protection layers, while regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities within the application's codebase. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers the use of script-based commands, as attackers may leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious scripts on the compromised system.