CVE-2008-2355 in WR-Meeting
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in WR-Meeting 1.0, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the msnum parameter in a coment event.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2355 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the WR-Meeting 1.0 web application, specifically affecting the index.php script. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before processing. The flaw is particularly dangerous when the web server operates with magic_quotes_gpc disabled, a configuration that removes automatic escaping of special characters and leaves the application vulnerable to malicious input manipulation. The vulnerability specifically targets the msnum parameter within the coment event functionality, where attackers can exploit the lack of proper input sanitization to manipulate file inclusion paths.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic directory traversal attack pattern where malicious actors append directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) to the msnum parameter value. This manipulation allows attackers to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary local files on the web server. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application fails to automatically escape special characters in incoming data, creating an environment where crafted directory traversal sequences can be directly interpreted by the file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability essentially permits attackers to bypass normal file access controls and potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system through the inclusion of local files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary local code on the vulnerable system. This represents a severe privilege escalation risk that can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially gain shell access to the web server. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected web application and underlying system, as unauthorized parties can manipulate the application to read files that should remain protected and potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed by the application. The most effective immediate fix involves enabling magic_quotes_gpc or implementing robust input validation that explicitly blocks or removes directory traversal sequences from user-supplied parameters. Additionally, developers should employ proper file inclusion practices such as whitelisting acceptable file paths, implementing strict access controls, and using secure coding techniques that prevent dynamic file inclusion based on user input. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and maps to attack techniques in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1566 Impair Defenses, demonstrating the multi-faceted nature of exploitation and the importance of comprehensive defensive measures. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of proper input validation and the dangers of disabling essential security features like magic_quotes_gpc in web applications.