CVE-2007-1842 in JSBoard
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in login.php in JSBoard before 2.0.12 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the table parameter, as demonstrated by injecting PHP sequences into an Apache HTTP Server log file, a related issue to CVE-2006-2019.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/02/2024
The CVE-2007-1842 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in JSBoard versions prior to 2.0.12, specifically within the login.php script. This vulnerability enables remote attackers to manipulate the table parameter through the use of .. (dot dot) sequences, creating a pathway for arbitrary local file inclusion and execution. The flaw exploits insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before processing, allowing malicious actors to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access sensitive system files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. Attackers can leverage this weakness by injecting directory traversal sequences into the table parameter, effectively bypassing access controls and potentially executing malicious code. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be combined with other techniques, such as log file injection, where attackers place PHP code sequences into Apache HTTP Server log files and then traverse to these locations through the vulnerable parameter. This creates a sophisticated attack vector that can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1842 extends beyond simple file access, as it can facilitate full system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities. The attack chain typically involves placing malicious code in log files through web application attacks or other means, then using the directory traversal to include these files, thereby executing arbitrary PHP code on the server. This approach provides attackers with persistent access and the ability to escalate privileges, making it a significant threat to web application security. The vulnerability's relationship to CVE-2006-2019 demonstrates a pattern of similar weaknesses in web applications, where directory traversal flaws can be exploited to achieve remote code execution.
Security professionals should implement comprehensive mitigations including input validation, proper parameter sanitization, and strict access controls to prevent unauthorized file access. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and other industry standards. Organizations must ensure that all user inputs are properly validated and sanitized before being processed, particularly when dealing with file operations and directory navigation. Additionally, implementing proper file access controls and limiting the permissions of web applications can significantly reduce the impact of such vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation and persistence techniques, emphasizing the need for layered security approaches that address both the immediate vulnerability and potential exploitation paths.