CVE-2008-2459 in EntertainmentScript
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in page.php in EntertainmentScript 1.4.0 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via directory traversal sequences in the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/24/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-2459 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within EntertainmentScript version 1.4.0, specifically affecting the page.php component of the application. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and directory traversal attacks that have been consistently identified as high-risk security issues in software applications. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate the page parameter through directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, allowing them to access arbitrary local files on the server filesystem. 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 attack vector leverages the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user input before using it to construct file paths, creating an opportunity for unauthorized file access and potential code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the EntertainmentScript application processes the page parameter without adequate input validation or sanitization. When an attacker submits a malicious payload containing directory traversal sequences, the application interprets these sequences and attempts to access files in unintended locations within the server's file system. This can lead to exposure of sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or system files that should remain protected. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to not only read files but potentially execute code if the application is configured to process and execute included files. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain deeper access to the system or escalate their privileges. This vulnerability is classified under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, though it's more fundamentally a path traversal attack that can enable various attack techniques.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-2459 is severe and multifaceted, as it can result in complete system compromise when exploited by malicious actors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can access sensitive application data, potentially including user credentials, database connection strings, and other confidential information stored in configuration files. The ability to execute arbitrary local files opens the door to remote code execution, which could allow attackers to install backdoors, modify application behavior, or even take full control of the affected server. Organizations running EntertainmentScript 1.4.0 are at significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations if this vulnerability is not addressed promptly. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the application and can be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise, making it particularly dangerous in environments where proper security controls are not in place.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2459 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms to prevent directory traversal attempts. The most effective approach involves implementing a whitelist-based validation system that only allows specific, legitimate file paths and rejects any input containing directory traversal sequences. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and file permission settings to limit what files can be accessed by the application. Additionally, the application should be updated to a patched version of EntertainmentScript that addresses this vulnerability, as the vendor has likely released a security update. Network-level mitigations such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious directory traversal attempts, though these should be considered supplementary to proper code-level fixes. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications, as directory traversal vulnerabilities are common across many web applications and frameworks. The remediation process should also include comprehensive logging and monitoring to detect any exploitation attempts, and organizations should ensure that all system components are regularly updated to address known vulnerabilities.