CVE-2007-4718 in Claroline
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in inc/lib/language.lib.php in Claroline before 1.8.6 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the language parameter.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4718 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Claroline learning management system version 1.8.5 and earlier. This issue resides in the file inc/lib/language.lib.php which handles language parameter processing, making it a prime target for remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of the language parameter, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file inclusion paths through directory traversal sequences.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious request containing .. (dot dot) sequences within the language parameter. This manipulation enables the application to traverse directories and include arbitrary local files from the server filesystem. The flaw essentially allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 - Server-side Include.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-4718 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides remote attackers with the capability to achieve arbitrary code execution on the affected server. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, data theft, privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within the network. Attackers might leverage this vulnerability to upload backdoors, steal sensitive educational data, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks. The vulnerability affects organizations using outdated Claroline installations, creating a persistent security risk that could remain undetected for extended periods.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to Claroline version 1.8.6 or later, which contains the necessary patches to prevent directory traversal attacks. Additional protective measures include implementing input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, configuring proper file permissions, and deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious traversal sequences. The remediation process should also involve conducting security audits of all web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and ensuring that proper access controls are in place to prevent unauthorized file access. Security teams should monitor for exploitation attempts and maintain updated threat intelligence to detect potential attacks targeting this specific vulnerability.