CVE-2007-4256 in Portal Systems
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in showpage.cgi in YNP Portal System 2.2.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the p parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2024
The CVE-2007-4256 vulnerability represents a classic directory traversal flaw within the YNP Portal System version 2.2.0, specifically affecting the showpage.cgi component. This vulnerability resides in the application's handling of user-supplied input through the p parameter, which is processed without adequate validation or sanitization. The flaw enables malicious actors to manipulate file paths by injecting directory traversal sequences such as .. to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary files on the server filesystem. The vulnerability directly impacts the system's input validation mechanisms and demonstrates a fundamental weakness in how the application processes user requests.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates at the core of improper input validation and access control implementation, aligning with CWE-22 which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The vulnerability allows attackers to bypass normal file access restrictions by exploiting the way the showpage.cgi script processes the p parameter, enabling them to traverse the filesystem hierarchy and potentially access sensitive files including configuration data, database credentials, or system files. The attack vector requires minimal privileges as it operates over network access and can be executed remotely without authentication, making it particularly dangerous in web-based environments. The flaw essentially permits path traversal attacks that can result in unauthorized data access and system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-4256 extends beyond simple file access, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access critical system files, configuration settings, and potentially sensitive data stored within the application's directory structure. The vulnerability also provides a foundation for further exploitation techniques, as access to system files may reveal additional attack vectors or enable privilege escalation. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in portal systems where multiple users interact with the platform, as it can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to user data and system resources. The vulnerability demonstrates a critical failure in secure coding practices and input sanitization that can result in significant business and security implications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4256 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the showpage.cgi script and the broader YNP Portal System. The most effective approach involves implementing proper path validation that prevents directory traversal sequences from being processed, including the removal or encoding of special characters such as .. and / in user-supplied parameters. System administrators should also implement proper access controls and file permissions to limit what files can be accessed even if traversal attacks are attempted. Additionally, the application should be updated to a patched version of the YNP Portal System that addresses this vulnerability, as the original version 2.2.0 is no longer supported. Security measures should include web application firewalls that can detect and block directory traversal attempts, along with regular security audits and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in the system. The implementation of these controls aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 which addresses discovery of file and directory permissions, and T1566 which covers credential access through various attack vectors.