CVE-2008-3195 in TWiki
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in bin/configure in TWiki before 4.2.3, when a certain step in the installation guide is skipped, allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a query string containing a .. (dot dot) in the image variable, and execute arbitrary files via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/11/2024
The CVE-2008-3195 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in TWiki version 4.2.2 and earlier, specifically within the bin/configure script. This vulnerability arises from improper input validation in the image variable parameter processing, where the application fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied input containing directory traversal sequences. The flaw becomes exploitable when administrators skip a crucial step in the TWiki installation process, leaving the system vulnerable to malicious input manipulation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the core configuration utility that handles image processing and file operations, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to compromise the web application's security posture.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the query string parameter that controls image handling within the TWiki configuration interface. When attackers insert dot-dot sequences into the image variable, they can traverse the file system directory structure to access arbitrary files on the server. This directory traversal capability allows attackers to read sensitive configuration files, source code, or other confidential data stored on the web server. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond mere information disclosure, as the unspecified execution vectors suggest that attackers may also be able to execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate sanitization of user-supplied data before processing, which aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal vulnerabilities that occur when applications fail to properly validate and sanitize path traversal sequences.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-3195 is severe for organizations running affected TWiki installations, as it provides attackers with both reconnaissance capabilities and potential execution privileges. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to server files, potentially exposing database credentials, application configuration details, or other sensitive information. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be used by anyone with access to the vulnerable web application. This weakness creates a persistent threat vector that remains active until the system is properly patched or the installation process is completed correctly. The vulnerability also impacts the application's integrity and availability, as successful exploitation could lead to data corruption or complete service disruption.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to TWiki version 4.2.3 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the directory traversal vulnerability. The recommended approach involves completing the full installation process as specified in TWiki documentation, ensuring all security steps are properly executed. Network-based mitigations should include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious directory traversal patterns in URL parameters. Additionally, administrators should review and restrict file permissions on the web server to limit access to sensitive files even if traversal attacks are successful. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices during software installation and configuration, as skipping critical security steps can leave systems exposed to serious exploitation vectors. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for proper input validation and sanitization in web applications, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage and T1566 for credential access through web application attacks.