CVE-2008-2782 in OtomiGenX
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in OtomiGenX 2.2 allow remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the lang parameter to (1) library_rss.php and (2) rss.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2782 represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting OtomiGenX 2.2 web applications. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application's handling of language parameters, specifically in two key files: library_rss.php and rss.php. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate the lang parameter by injecting .. (dot dot) sequences, enabling them to traverse the file system and access arbitrary local files on the server. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a fundamental security flaw that permits unauthorized access to sensitive system resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious requests containing directory traversal sequences in the lang parameter of the affected scripts. When the application processes these requests without proper sanitization, it inadvertently resolves the .. sequences and includes files from unintended locations on the server filesystem. This can lead to the execution of arbitrary code, disclosure of sensitive information such as configuration files, database credentials, or system files, and potentially full system compromise. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of proper input validation and sanitization that violates fundamental security principles for web application development.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the target system. This can result in complete system compromise, data breaches, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. The affected files library_rss.php and rss.php suggest that the vulnerability impacts content management or rss feed functionality, potentially allowing attackers to gain access to administrative interfaces or sensitive data processing components. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, install backdoors, or conduct further reconnaissance against the compromised system.
Security practitioners should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability. Input validation and sanitization mechanisms must be strengthened to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. The application should employ proper path validation that restricts file access to predetermined directories and rejects any input containing .. sequences. Additionally, implementing the principle of least privilege for web application processes can limit the damage from successful exploitation. Organizations should also consider deploying web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious directory traversal attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 - Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, as attackers may exploit this weakness to deliver malicious payloads through compromised web applications. The remediation process requires immediate patching of the OtomiGenX application to version 2.3 or later, along with comprehensive security code reviews to identify and address similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack.