CVE-2008-2650 in cmsimple
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in cmsimple/cms.php in CMSimple 3.1, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the sl parameter to index.php. NOTE: this can be leveraged for remote file execution by including adm.php and then invoking the upload action. NOTE: on 20080601, the vendor patched 3.1 without changing the version number.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2650 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within CMSimple 3.1's cms.php component that exploits the dangerous combination of register_globals being enabled and improper input validation. This weakness resides in the handling of the sl parameter within the index.php script, where the application fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into file system operations. The vulnerability operates by allowing attackers to manipulate the sl parameter through directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation, effectively bypassing normal file access restrictions and enabling unauthorized file system access. The flaw specifically manifests when register_globals is enabled on the web server, a configuration that was common in many php applications during the late 2000s but is now considered a significant security risk due to its potential for exploitation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a predictable pattern that aligns with common attack methodologies documented in the attack framework. An attacker can leverage the directory traversal capability to include arbitrary local files by manipulating the sl parameter to reference files outside the intended directory structure. The vulnerability becomes particularly dangerous when combined with the ability to include adm.php, which serves as an administrative interface within the CMSimple framework. Once an attacker successfully includes this administrative file, they can invoke the upload action functionality, effectively transforming a simple directory traversal into a complete remote code execution capability. This progression from directory traversal to remote code execution demonstrates how seemingly minor input validation flaws can compound into severe security breaches when combined with other system misconfigurations.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-2650 extends beyond immediate code execution capabilities to encompass broader system compromise and data exposure risks. When exploited successfully, this vulnerability enables attackers to upload malicious files to the web server, potentially establishing persistent backdoors or deploying additional malicious payloads. The vulnerability's exploitation is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond crafting the malicious URL, making it suitable for automated attack tools and mass exploitation campaigns. Organizations running CMSimple 3.1 with register_globals enabled face significant risk of complete system compromise, including data theft, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability also impacts the integrity of the content management system, as attackers can modify or replace critical system files, potentially leading to complete service outages or unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the CMS.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with CWE-22, which specifically addresses directory traversal flaws in software systems. This classification emphasizes the fundamental nature of the vulnerability as a weakness in input validation that allows attackers to manipulate file system access paths. The attack vector described in CVE-2008-2650 also corresponds to techniques found in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the 'T1059' category for command and scripting interpreter, as the exploitation ultimately results in remote code execution capabilities. The patching process mentioned in the vulnerability description, where the vendor updated version 3.1 without changing the version number, highlights the importance of proper patch management and version control practices. This particular vulnerability also underscores the dangers of legacy php configurations such as register_globals, which was deprecated in php 4.2.0 and removed in php 5.4.0 due to its inherent security risks and potential for exploitation in exactly the manner demonstrated by CVE-2008-2650. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management strategies and ensure that legacy configurations such as register_globals are disabled in all web applications to prevent similar exploitation opportunities.