CVE-2008-1415 in Multiple Time Sheets
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in Multiple Time Sheets (MTS) 5.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via "../..//" (modified dot dot) sequences in the tab parameter.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/19/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-1415 represents a classic directory traversal flaw that affects Multiple Time Sheets version 5.0 and earlier. This security weakness resides in the index.php script of the web application, where user input is not properly validated before being used to construct file paths. The vulnerability specifically targets the tab parameter which is processed without adequate sanitization, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file access requests through crafted input sequences. The exploitation technique leverages modified dot dot sequences using "../..//" patterns that bypass standard path validation mechanisms and enable unauthorized access to files outside the intended directory structure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and inadequate sanitization of user-supplied parameters. When the tab parameter is processed, the application fails to properly filter or escape special characters that could alter the intended file path. This weakness allows attackers to navigate upward through directory structures using the modified dot dot sequences, effectively bypassing access controls and gaining access to arbitrary files on the server. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no special privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by remote attackers without authentication. According to CWE standards, this maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to read sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other confidential information that should remain protected. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality aspect of the CIA triad by enabling unauthorized data disclosure. In the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with the T1083 technique for discovering files and directories, and could potentially lead to privilege escalation or lateral movement within the compromised environment. Organizations running affected versions of Multiple Time Sheets face significant risk of data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and potential system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the affected application to version 5.1 or later where the issue has been resolved. Until patching is complete, administrators should implement input validation measures that sanitize all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file path construction. The application should employ proper path validation techniques that reject or escape special characters including dots, forward slashes, and backslashes in user input. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and restricting file system permissions for web application directories can limit the damage from successful exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and blocking suspicious requests containing directory traversal patterns. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the organization's infrastructure.