CVE-2007-2104 in iXon CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in iXon CMS 0.30 allow remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the theme_url parameter to (1) index.php, (2) page.php, (3) search.php, (4) single.php, and (5) archives.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2104 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting iXon CMS version 0.30. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the content management system's core files, specifically targeting five key PHP scripts including index.php, page.php, search.php, single.php, and archives.php. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate the theme_url parameter through maliciously crafted .. (dot dot) sequences, enabling unauthorized access to arbitrary local files on the server. The flaw operates by exploiting insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input, permitting attackers to navigate beyond the intended directory structure and potentially access sensitive system files, configuration data, or other unauthorized resources.
From a technical perspective, this 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. The attack vector specifically targets the theme_url parameter within the affected PHP scripts, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. When an attacker submits a malicious payload containing directory traversal sequences, the CMS processes these inputs without adequate restrictions, leading to the inclusion of unintended local files. This vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in input validation and file access control mechanisms, where user-controllable parameters directly influence file system operations without proper boundary checks or sanitization procedures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected server. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, modify content, or potentially establish persistent access points within the compromised system. The vulnerability affects multiple entry points within the CMS, increasing the attack surface and making it more difficult for administrators to secure all potential vectors. Organizations running iXon CMS 0.30 are particularly vulnerable as this flaw allows for comprehensive system reconnaissance and exploitation without requiring local access or elevated privileges. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors can leverage this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet, making it a significant concern for web application security.
Security mitigations for CVE-2007-2104 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization measures across all user-controllable parameters. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided security patches or upgrade to a supported version of iXon CMS that addresses this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper file access controls and restricting file inclusion operations to predefined, trusted directories can prevent unauthorized file access. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be configured to monitor and block suspicious directory traversal patterns. The remediation approach should align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers may attempt to execute malicious code through the exploited vulnerability. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and ensure comprehensive protection against directory traversal attacks. System administrators should also implement proper logging and monitoring of file access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain audit trails for forensic analysis.