CVE-2007-6400 in Poldoc Document Management System
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in download_file.php in PolDoc CMS (aka PDDMS) 0.96 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) or absolute pathname in the filename parameter.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/12/2024
The CVE-2007-6400 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the PolDoc CMS version 0.96, specifically within the download_file.php component. This vulnerability enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server by manipulating the filename parameter through directory traversal sequences such as .. or absolute pathnames. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the file download functionality, creating a pathway for unauthorized data access that can potentially expose sensitive system information.
This directory traversal vulnerability operates by exploiting improper handling of user-supplied input in the filename parameter. When the application processes a request to download a file, it fails to adequately validate or sanitize the input before constructing file paths. Attackers can leverage this weakness by injecting sequences like ../ or absolute paths such as /etc/passwd to navigate outside the intended download directory and access restricted files on the server filesystem. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-22 weakness under Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a fundamental security flaw in input validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise. Attackers may exploit this weakness to read system configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other sensitive information that could facilitate further attacks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web applications where the download functionality is exposed to unauthenticated users, as it allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and access files that should remain protected. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and can support broader reconnaissance and lateral movement activities within compromised environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6400 require immediate implementation of proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should enforce strict path validation to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed, implement whitelisting of allowed file types and paths, and ensure that all user-supplied input is properly escaped or filtered before being used in file operations. The recommended approach includes implementing absolute path restrictions, using secure file access libraries, and configuring proper access controls to limit file system access. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in web applications and serves as a reminder of the necessity for robust security measures in content management systems, particularly when handling file operations that involve user input.