CVE-2007-6620 in Joovili
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in include/images.inc.php in Joovili 2.x allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the picture parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2024
The CVE-2007-6620 vulnerability represents a classic directory traversal flaw that existed within the Joovili 2.x content management system, specifically affecting the include/images.inc.php file. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being processed in file system operations. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the picture parameter through the use of .. (dot dot) sequences, enabling them to navigate outside the intended directory boundaries and access arbitrary files on the server. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it can be exploited without authentication, making it accessible to any remote user who can interact with the affected web application. The directory traversal mechanism exploited here falls under the broader category of path traversal attacks that have been consistently identified as critical security flaws across numerous web applications and frameworks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes user input from the picture parameter without proper validation or sanitization. When a malicious user submits a request containing .. sequences in the picture parameter, the application fails to properly sanitize this input before using it in file system operations. This allows the attacker to construct paths that traverse up the directory hierarchy, potentially accessing sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, or system files that should remain protected. The vulnerability specifically affects the include/images.inc.php file which likely handles image display functionality and processes user-provided image paths. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate access control mechanisms that permit unrestricted file system access through crafted user input.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-6620 is significant and multifaceted, potentially exposing sensitive system information and creating opportunities for further exploitation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access not only image files but also configuration files, log files, and potentially database connection details that could lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability can result in data leakage, unauthorized access to system resources, and potential escalation to more severe attacks such as remote code execution if combined with other vulnerabilities. Organizations running affected Joovili 2.x systems face risks including intellectual property theft, regulatory compliance violations, and potential legal consequences due to data exposure. The vulnerability also impacts system availability as attackers may use it to access system files that could cause application instability or denial of service conditions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6620 should focus on implementing proper input validation, output encoding, and access control measures. The most effective approach involves sanitizing all user-provided input through strict validation mechanisms that reject or normalize any sequences containing .. characters or other path traversal indicators. Implementing a whitelist-based approach for file access, where only predefined and safe file paths are allowed, provides strong protection against such attacks. Additionally, applications should employ proper access control measures that restrict file system operations to intended directories and implement proper directory browsing restrictions. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, and represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation can lead to critical security issues. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring systems to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The remediation process requires updating to patched versions of Joovili or implementing proper code-level protections that prevent user input from being directly used in file system operations, following principles outlined in the ATT&CK framework for defensive measures against path traversal attacks.