CVE-2008-3564 in Dayfox Blog
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in index.php in Dayfox Blog 4 allow remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the (1) p, (2) cat, and (3) archive parameters. NOTE: in some environments, this can be leveraged for remote file inclusion by using a UNC share pathname or an ftp, ftps, or ssh2.sftp URL.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3564 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in Dayfox Blog 4's index.php script, which exposes the application to remote code execution through improper input validation. This vulnerability specifically affects three parameters - p, cat, and archive - all of which are susceptible to manipulation using the .. (dot dot) traversal sequence. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations, creating a pathway for attackers to access arbitrary local files on the server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious requests containing .. sequences in the affected parameters, allowing them to traverse the file system hierarchy and access files outside the intended directory structure. When the application processes these parameters without adequate validation, it can be tricked into including and executing local files that should remain protected. This behavior creates a direct pathway for arbitrary code execution, as demonstrated by the ability to leverage the vulnerability for remote file inclusion through UNC share pathnames or URLs using protocols such as ftp, ftps, and ssh2.sftp. The attack vector operates at the application layer, requiring no special privileges beyond basic network access to the vulnerable web application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it enables complete compromise of the affected server through remote code execution capabilities. Attackers can leverage the directory traversal to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially gain access to database credentials or other critical information stored on the server. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and establishment of persistent backdoors. According to ATT&CK framework, this represents a technique categorized under T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) and T1566 (Phishing for Information) as attackers can use the compromised system to execute malicious code and potentially escalate privileges. The vulnerability also aligns with T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) as attackers can enumerate the file system to identify valuable targets.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate input validation issues and broader security posture improvements. The primary remediation involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Applications should employ whitelisting approaches for parameter values or implement proper path validation that prevents traversal sequences from being processed. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and least privilege principles, ensuring that web applications run with minimal required permissions and that sensitive files are properly protected. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and the principle of least privilege, as outlined in security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts, while regular security assessments and penetration testing can identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the organization's infrastructure.