CVE-2007-1478 in McGallery
Summary
by MITRE
download.php in McGallery 0.5b allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files and obtain script source code via the filename parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1478 resides within the McGallery 0.5b content management system, specifically in the download.php script that handles file retrieval operations. This flaw represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that enables unauthorized access to sensitive system resources. The vulnerability manifests when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input provided through the filename parameter, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to bypass normal access controls and retrieve files from the server's file system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the download.php script where the filename parameter is directly used in file operations without adequate sanitization or access control checks. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious requests that include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ to navigate outside the intended download directory. This allows them to access files that should remain protected, including configuration files, database credentials, and potentially even the source code of the application itself. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under CWE-22 as Path Traversal, which is a well-documented weakness in software systems where user-supplied input is used to construct file paths without proper validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can obtain sensitive information such as database connection strings, administrative credentials stored in configuration files, and application source code that may reveal additional security flaws. The source code exposure is particularly concerning as it provides attackers with detailed knowledge of the application's internal workings, potentially exposing other vulnerabilities or attack surfaces that were not initially apparent. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through malicious file downloads and T1083 for file and directory discovery, making it a valuable tool in the attacker's arsenal for reconnaissance and privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1478 should focus on implementing proper input validation and access control mechanisms. The most effective approach involves sanitizing all user-supplied input through whitelisting mechanisms that only allow predefined, safe file names or paths. Implementing a strict allowlist of permitted files ensures that only intended downloads are possible regardless of user input. Additionally, applications should employ proper directory traversal prevention techniques by validating file paths and ensuring that user input cannot cause the application to navigate outside intended directories. The solution should also include restricting file access permissions on the server to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive files even if the vulnerability is present. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious path traversal patterns, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and access control in preventing unauthorized system access, aligning with security best practices outlined in frameworks such as OWASP Top 10 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework.