CVE-2008-2352 in Smeego
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in Smeego 1.0, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the lang cookie.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2352 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the Smeego 1.0 web application's index.php script. This weakness specifically manifests when the PHP configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, creating an exploitable condition that enables remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, particularly within the lang cookie parameter that controls language localization settings. When magic_quotes_gpc is turned off, PHP does not automatically escape special characters in GET, POST, and COOKIE data, leaving the application susceptible to malicious input manipulation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the strategic insertion of directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation within the lang cookie value. This allows attackers to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary local files on the web server filesystem. The flaw specifically targets the file inclusion mechanism that processes the lang parameter, enabling attackers to include and subsequently execute local files with potentially elevated privileges. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code, read sensitive system files, or gain unauthorized access to the underlying operating system. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-22, which classifies directory traversal or path traversal attacks, and represents a fundamental failure in input validation and secure file access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands on the affected system. An attacker could potentially leverage this flaw to access configuration files containing database credentials, user authentication details, or other sensitive information. The vulnerability also enables the execution of malicious code, which could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically through the use of PHP-based exploitation methods. The attack chain typically involves crafting a malicious cookie value containing directory traversal sequences, submitting it to the vulnerable application, and then executing arbitrary code or accessing restricted files.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of multiple security controls. The primary recommendation involves enabling magic_quotes_gpc or implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. Organizations should also implement proper file access controls, restrict file inclusion to predefined whitelisted values, and employ secure coding practices that validate and sanitize all user inputs. Additionally, the application should be configured to run with minimal required privileges and implement proper access controls to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file access patterns or suspicious cookie values. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and the dangers of relying on server configuration settings for security purposes, as highlighted in various security frameworks including OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and ensure that security controls are properly implemented and maintained.