CVE-2007-0194 in MKPortal
Summary
by MITRE
admin.php in MKPortal M1.1 RC1 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via a direct request with an MK_PATH=1 query string, which reveals the path in an error message.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0194 affects MKPortal version M1.1 RC1 and represents a sensitive data exposure issue that arises from improper error handling within the administrative interface. This flaw exists in the admin.php script which fails to validate or sanitize user input parameters before processing them, specifically when the MK_PATH parameter is manipulated through query string manipulation. The vulnerability stems from the application's lack of proper access controls and input validation mechanisms that would normally prevent unauthorized users from accessing administrative functions or obtaining system information through crafted requests. When an attacker submits a direct request with MK_PATH=1, the application processes this parameter without adequate security checks, leading to the exposure of critical system paths in error messages that are subsequently returned to the attacker.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-200, which defines weaknesses related to information exposure, and specifically aligns with CWE-20, which covers improper input validation. The flaw demonstrates poor security architecture where the application does not implement proper authentication checks before allowing access to administrative functions. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for organizations using MKPortal as it provides attackers with precise system path information that can be leveraged for further exploitation. The exposed paths can reveal directory structures, file locations, and potentially sensitive configuration details that would otherwise remain hidden from unauthorized users. This information can serve as a foundation for more sophisticated attacks including directory traversal attempts, file inclusion vulnerabilities, or other path-based exploits that rely on knowing the underlying system structure.
The attack vector for this vulnerability is straightforward and requires minimal technical expertise to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in environments where the application is publicly accessible. Attackers can simply construct a malicious URL with the MK_PATH=1 parameter and observe the error message response to extract sensitive path information. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure as this path exposure can facilitate subsequent attacks such as local file inclusion vulnerabilities, where the disclosed paths can be used to manipulate the application's file handling behavior. Organizations using vulnerable versions of MKPortal face significant risks including potential data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to administrative functions that could lead to complete system control.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and authentication controls within the application. The most effective approach involves ensuring that all administrative functions require proper authentication before execution, regardless of input parameters provided. Additionally, the application should implement comprehensive error handling that does not expose system paths or internal configuration details to end users. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious query string parameters, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack. The remediation process should include updating to patched versions of MKPortal, implementing proper access controls, and establishing logging mechanisms to monitor for suspicious access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and proper access controls in preventing information disclosure attacks that can serve as precursors to more serious security incidents.