CVE-2007-6653 in Multi Host
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in download.php in Mihalism Multi Host 2.0.7 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2024
The directory traversal vulnerability identified in CVE-2007-6653 affects Mihalism Multi Host version 2.0.7, specifically within the download.php component. This flaw represents a classic path traversal attack vector that enables remote adversaries to access files outside the intended directory structure. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation in the file parameter processing, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths through the use of .. (dot dot) sequences. The affected application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file operations, creating an opportunity for unauthorized file access.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22 known as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory", which is categorized under the broader weakness of path traversal attacks. The technical implementation involves the application accepting user input through the file parameter and directly incorporating it into file system operations without proper sanitization or validation. When an attacker supplies a path containing .. sequences, the application processes these navigation elements, allowing access to files in parent directories that should remain protected. The vulnerability exists because the software does not properly restrict the file path resolution, enabling attackers to traverse beyond the intended download directory.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides attackers with the ability to read arbitrary files from the server filesystem. This could potentially expose sensitive information including configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other confidential data stored on the server. Attackers might exploit this vulnerability to gain insights into the application architecture, identify additional vulnerabilities, or extract credentials that could lead to further compromise. The remote nature of the attack means that an attacker does not require local access or authentication to exploit this vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous in web-facing applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6653 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. The primary defense involves validating all user-supplied input to ensure it conforms to expected patterns and does not contain path traversal sequences. Applications should employ allowlist validation techniques where only predefined safe file names or paths are accepted. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and ensuring that the application runs with minimal required privileges can limit the damage from successful exploitation. The remediation process should include updating to a patched version of Mihalism Multi Host, as the vulnerability was likely addressed in subsequent releases. Security measures should also include monitoring for suspicious file access patterns and implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block path traversal attempts. Organizations should follow the ATT&CK framework's T1083 technique for discovering files and directories, which includes detecting malicious file access patterns that could indicate exploitation of similar vulnerabilities. Regular security assessments and code reviews focusing on input validation practices are essential to prevent similar issues in other applications and maintain robust security postures.