CVE-2007-0929 in php rrd browser
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in php rrd browser before 0.2.1 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via ".." sequences in the p parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/27/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-0929 represents a classic directory traversal flaw that affected the php rrd browser software version 0.2.0 and earlier. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability exists in the way the application processes user input, particularly when handling the p parameter that controls file paths within the system. The php rrd browser is designed to display data from round robin database files, but the flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate the path resolution mechanism through carefully crafted input sequences containing double dots.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious payload containing ".." sequences within the p parameter of the application's request. These sequences, when processed by the vulnerable software, allow the attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access files that should remain restricted. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of the p parameter, which directly influences how file paths are resolved within the application's file system operations. When the application processes these traversal sequences without proper validation, it can result in arbitrary file read access, potentially exposing sensitive system files, configuration data, or other confidential information that resides outside the intended application scope.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to critical system resources. An attacker could potentially read system configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other sensitive files that might contain authentication details or system architecture information. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows remote code execution potential through the ability to read system files that might contain sensitive data or configuration parameters. The attack vector requires no special privileges or authentication, making it a significant threat to any system running the vulnerable version of php rrd browser. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which covers discovering system information through directory listing and file access methods.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve multiple layers of defensive measures. The most direct and effective solution is to upgrade to version 0.2.1 or later, where the directory traversal protection has been implemented. Additionally, input validation and sanitization should be enforced at all points where user-supplied data influences file system operations. Implementing proper path validation that rejects or strips out directory traversal sequences is essential. The application should also employ secure coding practices such as using allowlists for valid file paths, implementing proper access controls, and ensuring that file operations occur within restricted directories. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious path traversal patterns, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the system. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper access controls in preventing unauthorized file system access.