CVE-2008-0615 in WordPress
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in wp-admin/admin.php in the DMSGuestbook 1.8.0 and 1.7.0 plugin for WordPress allows remote authenticated users to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the (1) folder and (2) file parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/15/2024
The CVE-2008-0615 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the DMSGuestbook WordPress plugin version 1.8.0 and 1.7.0, specifically affecting the wp-admin/admin.php file. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's administrative interface, creating a pathway for authenticated attackers to access arbitrary files on the server. The flaw manifests when the plugin processes folder and file parameters without proper validation, allowing malicious actors to manipulate these inputs using directory traversal sequences such as .. to navigate outside the intended directory structure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters within the administrative context. When authenticated users submit requests containing .. sequences in the folder and file parameters, the plugin processes these inputs directly without adequate filtering or validation. This lack of input sanitization creates a condition where attackers can specify file paths that traverse upward through the directory hierarchy, potentially accessing sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, or other system resources that should remain protected. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that users with legitimate administrative privileges could be exploited to gain unauthorized access to system files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to potentially escalate their privileges and access sensitive system information. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to read WordPress configuration files containing database credentials, plugin source code, or other sensitive information that could be used for further exploitation. The vulnerability also opens the door to potential code execution if attackers can access files that contain executable code or if they can upload malicious files through other attack vectors. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The attack pattern aligns with MITRE ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers credential access through exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected plugin versions, as the original developers have released updates addressing this specific issue. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation measures that sanitize all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file operations or path resolution. The implementation of a whitelist approach for file access, where only predetermined directories and files are allowed, can effectively prevent directory traversal attempts. Additionally, proper access control measures should be enforced through role-based permissions, ensuring that administrative functions are restricted to authorized users only. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins or custom code implementations. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious path traversal patterns, and maintain up-to-date security monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in web applications and highlights the need for continuous security assessment of third-party plugins and components used in WordPress installations.