CVE-2008-2076 in ActualAnalyzer Lite
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in admin.php in ActualScripts ActualAnalyzer Lite 2.78 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the style parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2076 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the ActualScripts ActualAnalyzer Lite 2.78 web application. This issue specifically affects the admin.php component where user input is improperly validated before being used in file inclusion operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of the style parameter, which allows remote attackers to manipulate file paths through the use of .. (dot dot) sequences that traverse up directory trees. 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 technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious style parameter containing directory traversal sequences such as ../../etc/passwd or similar paths that point to sensitive system files. When the application processes this input without proper validation, it inadvertently includes and executes files from locations outside the intended directory structure. This creates a scenario where attackers can access arbitrary local files, potentially including system configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive data. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for arbitrary code execution, enabling attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying system and potentially escalate their privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the target system. This can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability affects the web application's administrative interface, which typically has elevated privileges and access to sensitive system resources. Attackers can leverage this weakness to bypass authentication mechanisms, modify application behavior, or gain full control over the hosting environment. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving path traversal and privilege escalation, with potential lateral movement capabilities once initial access is achieved. The affected application's lack of proper input validation creates a persistent security gap that can be exploited by automated scanning tools, making it particularly attractive to malicious actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2076 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application code. The most effective approach involves implementing strict parameter validation that rejects any input containing directory traversal sequences or special characters that could manipulate file paths. Security measures should include whitelisting valid style parameters, implementing proper access controls, and ensuring that all user-supplied input is properly escaped before being processed. Additionally, the application should be configured to run with minimal privileges and implement proper file access controls that prevent unauthorized file access. Regular security updates and patches should be applied to address known vulnerabilities, and application developers should follow secure coding practices that prevent similar issues in future implementations. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious activity patterns associated with directory traversal attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of input validation in web applications and demonstrates how seemingly simple flaws can lead to severe security consequences.