CVE-2008-2687 in ProManager
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in inc/config.php in ProManager 0.73 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the language parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2687 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the ProManager 0.73 web application framework. This security weakness exists in the inc/config.php file where the application fails to properly validate user input parameters, specifically the language parameter that controls internationalization settings. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms by injecting directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation, thereby gaining unauthorized access to local files on the server hosting the application.
This directory traversal vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22, which classifies improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability exploits the application's insufficient input validation and sanitization processes, allowing attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system. The language parameter serves as the primary attack vector, where an attacker can manipulate the parameter value to navigate through the file system hierarchy and access sensitive files that should remain protected.
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 server. This could lead to complete system compromise, allowing adversaries to escalate privileges, access sensitive data, or deploy malware. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require physical access to the system and can be performed from any location with network connectivity to the vulnerable application. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access configuration files, database credentials, user information, and potentially other sensitive system resources that are typically protected by proper file access controls.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the use of remote services for command execution and system compromise. The vulnerability creates an attack surface that aligns with multiple ATT&CK tactics including privilege escalation and defense evasion. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameter sanitization, and proper file access controls. The most effective remediation involves implementing strict input validation on all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations, and employing a whitelist approach for acceptable language parameters. Additionally, the application should be configured to run with minimal necessary privileges and implement proper access controls to prevent unauthorized file access even if the traversal attack were to succeed. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack and ensure that proper security measures are in place to prevent such directory traversal attacks from compromising system integrity.