CVE-2007-3523 in XCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in Module/Galerie.php in XCMS 1.1 allow remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the (1) Ent or (2) Lang parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-3523 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting XCMS 1.1 content management system. This issue manifests in the Module/Galerie.php component where improper input validation allows attackers to manipulate file inclusion parameters. The vulnerability specifically impacts two parameters named Ent and Lang, both of which are susceptible to directory traversal attacks using the .. (dot dot) sequence. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The attack vector enables remote exploitation without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for web applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input sanitization in the parameter handling logic. When attackers supply .. sequences in either the Ent or Lang parameters, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize these inputs before using them in file inclusion operations. This allows malicious actors to traverse the file system hierarchy and access files that should normally be restricted. The vulnerability specifically targets the include or require functions within PHP, where the unsanitized parameters are directly incorporated into file paths, enabling arbitrary local file inclusion. This flaw directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003, which covers server-side include attacks, and T1059.007, covering scripting languages through command injection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, as attackers can access sensitive files including configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and potentially system files. The ability to execute arbitrary local files means that attackers can upload and execute malicious code on the target server, potentially establishing persistent backdoors or creating reverse shells. This vulnerability also enables attackers to perform reconnaissance by accessing system files that reveal the underlying operating system, installed applications, and server configuration details. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location with internet access, making it difficult to defend against and trace.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach involves implementing strict whitelist validation for parameter values, ensuring that only predefined acceptable values are accepted. Additionally, the application should implement proper path validation that prevents directory traversal sequences from being processed. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious path traversal patterns. The most effective long-term solution involves upgrading to a patched version of XCMS or migrating to a more secure content management platform. Security practitioners should also implement principle of least privilege for web application directories, ensuring that web servers have minimal required file system access rights. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack, as directory traversal vulnerabilities often occur in multiple locations within complex applications.