CVE-2007-3619 in Maia Mailguard
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in login.php in Maia Mailguard 1.0.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the lang parameter.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/12/2025
The CVE-2007-3619 vulnerability represents a classic directory traversal flaw that existed in Maia Mailguard versions 1.0.2 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the login.php script where the lang parameter is improperly validated, allowing malicious actors to exploit the application's file handling mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to sanitize user input before using it in file operations, creating an opportunity for attackers to navigate the filesystem beyond intended boundaries.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates through the manipulation of the lang parameter which is used to determine which language file to load for the application interface. When an attacker supplies a path traversal sequence such as ..%2F..%2F in the lang parameter, the application processes this input without proper validation, resulting in the system attempting to read files from arbitrary locations on the server filesystem. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to access sensitive files that may contain configuration data, database credentials, or other confidential information that should remain protected.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to critical system resources. An attacker could potentially read system configuration files, database connection details, or even application source code that might reveal additional vulnerabilities. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation practices that are commonly associated with CWE-22, which specifically addresses directory traversal and path traversal issues in software applications. This weakness allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially escalate privileges within the application environment.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083, which involves discovering system information through file and directory enumeration. The exploitation of this flaw provides attackers with valuable reconnaissance data that can be used for further attacks against the target system. The vulnerability also reflects broader security concerns related to improper input validation and lack of proper access controls that are frequently exploited in web application attacks.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file operations. Organizations should ensure that the application employs a whitelist approach for language selection, rejecting any input that contains path traversal sequences or special characters. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by running the application with minimal required permissions and by implementing proper file access controls. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security updates and patch management, as Maia Mailguard versions beyond 1.0.2 would have addressed this specific weakness through proper input validation mechanisms.