CVE-2008-2217 in Content Management System
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in cm/graphie.php in Content Management System 0.6.1 for Phprojekt allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the cm_imgpath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2217 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Content Management System version 0.6.1 for Phprojekt. This security weakness resides in the cm/graphie.php component where improper input validation allows malicious actors to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms through crafted directory traversal sequences. The vulnerability specifically affects the cm_imgpath parameter which processes user-supplied input without adequate sanitization or validation measures.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user input before using it in file system operations. When a remote attacker submits a malicious value containing .. (dot dot) sequences within the cm_imgpath parameter, the application processes these traversal characters without sufficient validation, enabling access to arbitrary local files on the server. This vulnerability 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 flaw demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and output encoding that allows attackers to bypass intended access controls and potentially execute arbitrary code or retrieve sensitive information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary local files on the target system. This could enable full system compromise through the execution of malicious scripts or the retrieval of sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or other critical system information. The vulnerability affects the availability, confidentiality, and integrity of the affected system, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges or establish persistent access. From an adversarial perspective, this flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, where attackers could leverage the file inclusion vulnerability to execute system commands through the compromised application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2217 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the affected application. The most effective remediation involves filtering and validating all user-supplied input before processing, particularly parameters used in file system operations. Implementing a whitelist-based approach for acceptable file paths or using secure file handling functions that prevent directory traversal sequences can effectively neutralize this vulnerability. Additionally, applying proper access controls and ensuring that the application runs with minimal required privileges can limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities throughout the application stack. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing common attack vectors that have persisted across multiple years of cybersecurity threats.