CVE-2008-3192 in jSite
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in jSite 1.0 OE allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the module parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/01/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-3192 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the jSite 1.0 OE content management system that exposes the application to remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the index.php file and stems from improper input validation when processing the module parameter, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The flaw allows malicious actors to traverse the file system hierarchy using the .. (dot dot) notation, which is a well-known technique for accessing files outside of intended directories. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which classifies directory traversal or path traversal attacks as a fundamental weakness in input validation that enables unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious request containing directory traversal sequences in the module parameter of the index.php script. By injecting .. characters into the parameter, the attacker can navigate to arbitrary directories on the server filesystem and potentially include local files that should remain protected. This weakness creates a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, as the application's file inclusion mechanism does not properly sanitize user-supplied input before processing. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the web application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system compromise and potential data breaches. Attackers can leverage this flaw to access database configuration files, application source code, and other sensitive system components that may contain credentials, business logic, or personal user data. The vulnerability enables attackers to escalate privileges and potentially establish persistent access to the compromised system, making it a significant threat to organizational security. This type of vulnerability is classified under the ATT&CK framework as T1505.003 (Server Software Component) and T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell), as it allows for remote code execution through web-based attack vectors that can be used to establish command and control capabilities.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach involves implementing strict whitelisting of acceptable module parameters, removing or disabling the vulnerable file inclusion functionality, and ensuring proper access controls are enforced through robust authentication and authorization mechanisms. Additionally, regular security updates and patches should be applied to all web applications to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities, and application firewalls should be configured to detect and block suspicious directory traversal patterns in incoming requests. The implementation of secure coding practices, including proper parameter validation and input sanitization, should be enforced throughout the development lifecycle to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future applications.