CVE-2007-1930 in cattaDoc
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in download2.php in cattaDoc 2.21, and possibly other versions including 3.0, allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the fn1 parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2024
The directory traversal vulnerability identified in CVE-2007-1930 affects cattaDoc version 2.21 and potentially 3.0, representing a critical security flaw in the file handling mechanism of this document management system. This vulnerability resides within the download2.php script which processes file download requests through the fn1 parameter, creating an opportunity for remote attackers to access unauthorized system files through manipulation of directory path references.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the download2.php script. When the fn1 parameter contains directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate these inputs before processing file operations. This allows attackers to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access files that should remain protected, potentially including system configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive information stored on the server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file disclosure, as it enables attackers to potentially gain access to critical system resources and sensitive data. Remote exploitation of this flaw could allow unauthorized users to retrieve confidential information, compromise system integrity, and potentially escalate privileges if the application runs with elevated permissions. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where cattaDoc is deployed and where proper access controls have not been implemented to restrict file system access.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a classic example of CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is categorized under the broader category of path traversal attacks in the CWE taxonomy. The attack vector aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 sub-technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically focusing on the use of directory traversal to access unauthorized files. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, proper path normalization, and restricting file access permissions to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability across all affected versions of cattaDoc.
Mitigation strategies should include implementing strict input validation for all file path parameters, employing proper file access controls through secure coding practices, and ensuring that applications do not allow arbitrary file system access through user-supplied input. Additionally, network segmentation and application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other applications and ensure that all systems maintain adequate protection against directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper input sanitization and secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution and unauthorized data access scenarios.