CVE-2007-6086 in VigileCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in VigileCMS 1.4 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via directory traversal sequences in the module parameter.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-6086 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within VigileCMS version 1.4, specifically affecting the index.php script. This weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data passed through the module parameter. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-22, which details improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. Such flaws occur when applications fail to properly validate or sanitize input that is used to construct file paths, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the intended file access behavior.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables remote attackers to manipulate the module parameter in the index.php file to traverse directory structures and access arbitrary local files on the server. Through carefully crafted directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, attackers can bypass normal access controls and potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected system. This type of attack directly violates the principle of least privilege and can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities or attack vectors. The vulnerability exists because the application does not properly validate or sanitize the module parameter before using it in file inclusion operations, creating a direct path for malicious input to influence the application's file access behavior.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with unauthorized access to sensitive files and potentially full system control. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to read configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other sensitive information stored on the server. The ability to execute arbitrary local files opens pathways for code injection attacks, privilege escalation, and persistent access to the compromised system. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications that dynamically include files based on user input without proper validation, making it a common target for automated exploitation tools and manual attackers seeking to compromise web servers. The attack surface extends beyond simple information disclosure to include complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6086 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application. The most effective approach involves implementing a whitelist-based validation system that only allows predetermined, safe module names to be processed by the application. Additionally, developers should employ proper file path normalization and validation techniques that prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. Security measures should include disabling dangerous PHP functions such as include, require, and eval when user input is involved, and implementing proper access controls that limit file system access to only necessary resources. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block known directory traversal patterns, and conduct regular security audits to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The remediation process should include immediate patching of the affected VigileCMS version and implementation of secure coding practices that prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in future development cycles.