CVE-2007-2659 in PHP Advanced Transfer Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in PHP Advanced Transfer Manager (phpATM) 1.30 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files and obtain script source code via a .. (dot dot) in the directory parameter in a downloadfile action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2659 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the PHP Advanced Transfer Manager version 1.30 web application. This security weakness resides in the index.php file and specifically affects the downloadfile action functionality. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of the directory parameter, which allows malicious actors to exploit the system's file access mechanisms through crafted requests containing directory traversal sequences.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the .. (dot dot) sequence to navigate outside the intended directory boundaries and access arbitrary files on the server filesystem. When a remote attacker submits a malicious request with a directory parameter containing traversal sequences, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize this input before processing file access operations. This omission creates a pathway for unauthorized file retrieval including sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially even source code of the web application itself. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under CWE-22 as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')".
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques. Attackers can potentially obtain sensitive information such as database credentials, application configuration files, and source code that may reveal additional vulnerabilities within the system. The exposure of script source code provides attackers with detailed insights into the application's internal workings, potentially enabling more sophisticated attacks. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications that handle file downloads or access operations without proper input validation, making it a significant concern for organizations running legacy phpATM installations.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for "Access to Source Code Repository" and represents a classic example of insecure file handling practices. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through patching the phpATM application to version 1.31 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization measures, restricting file access permissions, and deploying web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of validating all user inputs and implementing proper access controls, particularly when dealing with file system operations in web applications, as highlighted in various OWASP Top 10 security guidelines.