CVE-2007-0337 in KGB
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in sesskglogadmin.php in KGB 1.9 and earlier allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the skinnn parameter, as demonstrated by invoking kg.php with a postek parameter containing PHP code, which is injected into a file in the kg directory, and then included by sesskglogadmin.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0337 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the KGB 1.9 software suite, specifically affecting the sesskglogadmin.php component. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters, creating an exploitable condition that enables remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion paths. The vulnerability manifests when the skinnn parameter in sesskglogadmin.php processes user input without sufficient sanitization, allowing attackers to traverse directory structures using the .. (dot dot) notation commonly employed in path traversal attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a precise sequence that demonstrates the dangerous combination of insecure file handling and remote code execution capabilities. Attackers can manipulate the skinnn parameter to include arbitrary local files, effectively bypassing normal access controls and directory restrictions. The attack chain begins with the injection of PHP code through the postek parameter when invoking kg.php, which then gets written to a file within the kg directory. Subsequently, sesskglogadmin.php includes this malicious file due to its improper handling of the skinnn parameter, resulting in the execution of arbitrary code on the target system. This represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that falls under the CWE-22 category, specifically addressing improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data exposure, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Remote attackers can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to full system control, data exfiltration, or further network infiltration. The vulnerability affects all versions of KGB 1.9 and earlier, indicating a widespread exposure across numerous installations that may have remained unpatched for extended periods. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers the execution of code through web shells or command injection, and demonstrates how directory traversal can serve as a gateway for more sophisticated attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0337 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary solution involves upgrading to KGB versions beyond 1.9, where the directory traversal vulnerability has been resolved through proper input validation and parameter sanitization. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation measures that reject or sanitize any path traversal sequences, including the .. (dot dot) notation, from all user-supplied parameters. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that web server processes operate with minimal required permissions and that file inclusion operations are restricted to predefined, safe directories. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense by monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns and anomalous access attempts that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments to prevent such dangerous flaws from persisting in production environments.