CVE-2008-3087 in Kasseler
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Kasseler CMS 1.3.0 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter to index.php, possibly related to the phpManual module.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3087 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Kasseler CMS version 1.3.0 that exposes the system to remote code execution and data exfiltration attacks. This weakness stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters, specifically the file parameter in the index.php script. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to manipulate file paths through the use of directory traversal sequences such as .. which can navigate upward through the file system hierarchy. The issue is directly linked to the phpManual module, suggesting that the flaw exists within how this particular module processes file references and handles user input. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The attack vector enables remote threat actors to access sensitive files that should normally be restricted, including configuration files, database credentials, and potentially system files that could provide deeper access to the underlying infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file reading capabilities and can potentially lead to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this flaw to access critical system components such as database connection files, administrator credentials, and application configuration settings that may contain encryption keys or other sensitive information. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the content management system by allowing unauthorized access to files that should remain protected within the application's directory structure. When combined with other exploitation techniques, this directory traversal vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation, data theft, and system infiltration. The implications are particularly severe for web applications that host sensitive data or serve as platforms for multiple users, as the vulnerability can be exploited without authentication and from any remote location. This weakness creates an attack surface that can be systematically explored to map the underlying file system structure and identify additional targets for exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3087 require immediate implementation of input validation controls and proper parameter sanitization within the affected Kasseler CMS installation. Organizations should implement strict input filtering that prevents the use of directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e in file path parameters, ensuring that all user-supplied input is properly validated against a whitelist of allowed characters and patterns. The recommended approach includes implementing absolute path resolution techniques that prevent navigation outside of designated directories and enforcing proper access controls that limit file system access to legitimate application components. Security patches should be applied immediately to upgrade to a patched version of Kasseler CMS that addresses this vulnerability, as the original version 1.3.0 is no longer supported and lacks security updates. System administrators should also implement web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious directory traversal patterns, and conduct comprehensive security audits to identify any other potential vulnerabilities within the CMS or related applications. Additionally, monitoring and logging mechanisms should be enhanced to detect attempts to exploit this type of vulnerability, providing early warning capabilities that can help prevent successful attacks. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to ensure that the implemented controls do not negatively impact legitimate application functionality while effectively blocking the exploitation vectors associated with directory traversal attacks.