CVE-2007-3535 in GL-SH Deaf Forum
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in GL-SH Deaf Forum 6.4.4 and earlier allow remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the (1) FORUM_LANGUAGE parameter to functions.php or the (2) style parameter to bottom.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/23/2024
The CVE-2007-3535 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting GL-SH Deaf Forum versions 6.4.4 and earlier. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation in two specific script files that handle user-supplied parameters without proper sanitization. The flaw exists in functions.php where the FORUM_LANGUAGE parameter and in bottom.php where the style parameter are processed, creating opportunities for attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms through crafted directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the fundamental weakness in how the application handles file paths and user input. When the FORUM_LANGUAGE parameter in functions.php or the style parameter in bottom.php receives input containing directory traversal sequences, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize these inputs before using them in file inclusion operations. This allows an attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary local files on the server, potentially leading to unauthorized file disclosure, remote code execution, or system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-3535 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal attacks. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication and can be exploited remotely, making it an attractive target for automated scanning tools and malicious actors seeking to compromise web applications. The vulnerability creates a persistent security risk that can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms across all user-supplied parameters that influence file inclusion operations. The most effective approach involves implementing strict whitelisting of acceptable values for the FORUM_LANGUAGE and style parameters, ensuring that only predetermined, safe values are accepted. Additionally, developers should implement proper path normalization and validation techniques that prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. The implementation should follow security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and adhere to defensive programming principles that assume all input is malicious. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms to detect and block suspicious directory traversal attempts. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications, as this type of flaw remains prevalent in legacy web applications and represents a fundamental security weakness that requires immediate remediation.