CVE-2007-0098 in VerliAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in language.php in VerliAdmin 0.3 and earlier, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the lang cookie, as demonstrated by injecting PHP sequences into an Apache HTTP Server log file, which is then included by language.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-0098 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in VerliAdmin version 0.3 and earlier, specifically within the language.php component. This issue arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices in the application's handling of user-supplied data through the lang cookie parameter. The vulnerability is particularly severe because it occurs when the PHP configuration setting magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, which removes the automatic escaping of special characters that would otherwise prevent malicious input from being interpreted as commands.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves attackers crafting malicious cookie values containing directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) to navigate outside the intended directory structure. In the demonstrated attack scenario, an attacker injects PHP code into an Apache HTTP Server log file, which then becomes accessible through the vulnerable language.php script. This creates a chain of execution where the log file content is included and subsequently executed as PHP code, effectively allowing remote code execution on the target system. The vulnerability operates under CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which specifically addresses the issue of insufficient restrictions on file path manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected server with the privileges of the web application. This can lead to complete system compromise, data theft, or further lateral movement within the network. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages legitimate application functionality to achieve malicious goals, making detection more difficult. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 - Server Software Component, where adversaries abuse application components to execute code or access sensitive data.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include implementing proper input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied data, particularly cookie values. Organizations should ensure that magic_quotes_gpc is enabled or implement alternative input sanitization mechanisms. The recommended approach involves using a whitelist of allowed language values and implementing strict path validation to prevent directory traversal attempts. Additionally, the application should employ proper file inclusion practices using absolute paths and avoid dynamic inclusion of user-controllable parameters. Security patches should be applied immediately to upgrade to versions of VerliAdmin that address this vulnerability, as the flaw exists in versions 0.3 and earlier. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation as fundamental security measures that should be implemented across all application components to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.