CVE-2007-2184 in counter
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in imgsrv.php in jchit counter 1.0.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the acc parameter.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2184 represents a classic directory traversal flaw in the jchit counter 1.0.0 web application's imgsrv.php component. This issue enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the target system by manipulating the acc parameter through directory traversal sequences. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the application's file handling mechanisms, allowing malicious users to navigate beyond the intended directory structure and potentially access sensitive system files.
This directory traversal vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw exists because the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file operations. When the acc parameter contains sequences such as .. or similar traversal patterns, the application processes these inputs without adequate restrictions, leading to unauthorized file access. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no special privileges or authentication to attempt exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file reading capabilities, as it can potentially expose sensitive system information including configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other confidential data. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain insights into the target system's architecture, potentially identifying additional vulnerabilities or attack vectors. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target the vulnerable application from anywhere on the network, making it particularly attractive for automated scanning and exploitation campaigns. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) when used as a reconnaissance tool in broader attack chains.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2184 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application. The most effective approach involves filtering or rejecting any input containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or similar patterns before they are processed by the file handling functions. Additionally, implementing a whitelist approach for acceptable file paths and ensuring proper file access controls can significantly reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also consider implementing proper access controls and authentication mechanisms to limit exposure to unauthorized access attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews focusing on input validation practices can help identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities before they can be exploited in production environments. The remediation process should include updating the application to a version that addresses this specific vulnerability or implementing proper input sanitization measures if the application cannot be updated immediately.