CVE-2007-1577 in GeBlog
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in GeBlog 0.1 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the GLOBALS[tplname] parameter, as demonstrated by injecting PHP sequences into an Apache HTTP Server log file, which is then included by index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1577 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting GeBlog 0.1, a web-based blogging platform that was widely used in early 2000s web applications. This vulnerability resides within the index.php script and specifically targets the GLOBALS[tplname] parameter, which processes template names for blog display. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms by exploiting the .. (dot dot) traversal sequence, allowing unauthorized access to arbitrary local files on the server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through log file injection techniques, where malicious PHP code is injected into Apache HTTP Server log files and subsequently executed when the vulnerable index.php script includes these files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. Attackers can leverage this flaw by crafting malicious requests that include directory traversal sequences in the tplname parameter, effectively bypassing normal file access controls. When combined with log file injection, the vulnerability becomes even more severe as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The attack chain typically involves injecting PHP code into the web server's log files through malicious user agent strings or other input vectors, then manipulating the GLOBALS[tplname] parameter to include these log files, thereby achieving remote code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1577 extends beyond simple file disclosure to full system compromise, as demonstrated by the ability to execute PHP code through log file inclusion. This vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of web applications by enabling attackers to access sensitive system files, modify application behavior, and potentially gain complete control over the hosting environment. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be automated, making it particularly attractive to malicious actors. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution, and T1566 for phishing with malicious attachments, as attackers can use the vulnerability to deliver malicious payloads through compromised log files.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing strict input validation and sanitization mechanisms to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. The recommended approach includes implementing proper parameter validation that filters out special characters such as .., /, and \ from user input, particularly in parameters that control file inclusion operations. Additionally, the application should enforce strict file access controls and avoid using user-controllable parameters directly in file inclusion functions. Security measures should also include regular log file monitoring and sanitization to prevent malicious code injection, as well as implementing the principle of least privilege for web application processes to limit potential damage from successful exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules that specifically target directory traversal patterns to provide additional layers of protection against such vulnerabilities.