CVE-2008-1537 in PowerBook
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in pb_inc/admincenter/index.php in PowerScripts PowerBook 1.21 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the page parameter. NOTE: in some environments, this can be leveraged for remote file inclusion by using a UNC share pathname or an ftp, ftps, or ssh2.sftp URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1537 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the PowerScripts PowerBook 1.21 web application, specifically affecting the pb_inc/admincenter/index.php component. This weakness enables remote attackers to manipulate the application's file inclusion mechanisms by exploiting improper input validation in the page parameter. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to adequately sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file system operations, creating an opportunity for attackers to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary local files on the server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the page parameter to include sequences of .. (dot dot) characters that traverse the directory hierarchy. When the application processes these malicious inputs without proper validation, it inadvertently loads and executes local files that should remain inaccessible to remote users. This flaw directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that in certain network environments, attackers can leverage this weakness for remote file inclusion attacks by utilizing UNC share pathnames or URLs with protocols such as ftp, ftps, or ssh2.sftp, expanding the attack surface beyond simple local file access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can potentially enable complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain access to sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other system resources that are typically protected by proper file system permissions. The ability to execute arbitrary local files through this vulnerability creates a pathway for persistent access, privilege escalation, and data exfiltration. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566, which covers the exploitation of vulnerabilities in remote services to gain initial access to systems, and T1059, which involves the execution of commands through various attack vectors including file inclusion techniques.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper input validation and sanitization measures within the application code. The most effective approach involves implementing strict parameter validation that rejects any input containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e. Additionally, developers should employ absolute path resolution techniques and implement proper access controls that prevent file inclusion from unauthorized locations. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious directory traversal patterns in HTTP requests. The remediation process must include thorough code review and security testing to ensure that all file inclusion mechanisms are properly validated and that the application operates within a restricted directory context. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be implemented to address similar vulnerabilities that may exist in other components of the application stack.