CVE-2007-2105 in Monkey CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in admin/index.php in Monkey CMS 0.0.3 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the admin_skin parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2105 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in Monkey CMS version 0.0.3 that exposes the application to remote code execution attacks. This weakness specifically affects the admin/index.php script where the admin_skin parameter fails to properly validate user input, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization that allows attackers to exploit the .. (dot dot) sequence to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary local files on the server.
This directory traversal vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which defines improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The flaw operates by accepting user-supplied input through the admin_skin parameter without proper validation or sanitization, enabling attackers to construct malicious paths that bypass normal access controls. When the application processes this parameter, it directly incorporates the user input into file inclusion operations, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution. The security implications are severe as this vulnerability allows attackers to potentially access sensitive files, execute arbitrary commands, and gain unauthorized access to the underlying system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the target system. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent access to the affected server. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to include system files such as configuration files, database credentials, or even system binaries, potentially enabling privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability affects the administrative interface of Monkey CMS, making it particularly dangerous as it could allow unauthorized users to gain administrative privileges and control the entire content management system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2105 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided patches or upgrade to a newer version of Monkey CMS that addresses this vulnerability. The recommended approach involves implementing strict input validation that filters out special characters including the .. sequence and other path traversal indicators. Additionally, employing secure coding practices such as using whitelisting for acceptable skin parameters, implementing proper file access controls, and restricting file inclusion to predefined directories can effectively prevent exploitation. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection, while regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation typically involves executing malicious code through the vulnerable file inclusion mechanism, making it a significant concern for enterprise security postures.