CVE-2007-1329 in LedgerSMB
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in SQL-Ledger, and LedgerSMB before 1.1.5, allows remote attackers to read and overwrite arbitrary files, and execute arbitrary code, via . (dot) characters adjacent to (1) users and (2) users/members strings, which are removed by blacklisting functions that filter these strings and collapse into .. (dot dot) sequences.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1329 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting SQL-Ledger and LedgerSMB versions prior to 1.1.5. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data containing dot characters. The flaw specifically targets the filtering functions responsible for processing user and users/members string parameters, where maliciously crafted inputs containing adjacent dot characters can bypass security controls and manipulate file system access patterns.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the blacklisting approach used by these applications to prevent directory traversal attacks. When users submit requests containing dot characters adjacent to the targeted strings, the filtering functions incorrectly process these inputs by removing the dot characters and collapsing them into dot dot sequences. This transformation creates a path traversal condition that allows attackers to navigate outside the intended directory boundaries and access arbitrary files on the server. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the fundamental weakness in how these systems handle user input validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to read sensitive files including configuration data, database credentials, and application source code that may contain additional vulnerabilities. The ability to overwrite arbitrary files opens pathways for persistent backdoor installation and system manipulation. Code execution capabilities transform this vulnerability from a passive information gathering tool into an active exploitation vector that can lead to complete system takeover and persistent access.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. This weakness allows attackers to access files and directories stored outside the intended directory by manipulating variables that reference file paths. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for credential access, as attackers can extract sensitive information and potentially gain unauthorized access to system resources. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it affects web-based financial applications that often contain sensitive business data and user credentials.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of affected systems to version 1.1.5 or later where the directory traversal vulnerability has been addressed through improved input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement proper input filtering mechanisms that properly validate and sanitize all user-supplied data rather than relying on blacklisting approaches. Additional protective measures include implementing proper access controls, restricting file system permissions for web applications, and deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious path traversal patterns. Regular security assessments and code reviews focusing on input validation practices should be conducted to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in future releases.