CVE-2008-4330 in LanSuite
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in LanSuite 3.3.2 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the design parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-4330 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the LanSuite 3.3.2 web application framework that exposes systems to remote code execution attacks. This issue specifically affects the index.php script where user input is improperly validated before being used to include local files. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of the design parameter which allows attackers to manipulate file paths using directory traversal sequences such as .. or ../. When the application processes these malicious inputs without proper validation, it can be coerced into including arbitrary local files from the server filesystem, potentially leading to full system compromise.
This directory traversal vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The flaw operates at the application level where input validation fails to properly restrict user-supplied data from accessing files outside of intended directories. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows remote unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system by leveraging the file inclusion mechanism. The vulnerability enables attackers to access sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially gain shell access to the underlying server infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure to encompass full system compromise and persistent access. Attackers can exploit this weakness to include system files such as /etc/passwd, configuration files, or even web application source code, which may reveal sensitive information about the system architecture and application logic. The remote execution capability means that attackers can upload and execute malicious payloads without requiring local access or authentication. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations using LanSuite 3.3.2 for network management, as it provides a direct path to compromise network infrastructure and potentially escalate privileges within the local network environment.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms at all points where user input influences file operations. The most effective defense involves implementing strict parameter validation that rejects any input containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or ../. Web application firewalls should be configured to detect and block such patterns in URL parameters. Additionally, the application should be updated to a patched version of LanSuite that properly validates and sanitizes the design parameter before using it in file inclusion operations. System administrators should also implement principle of least privilege configurations, ensuring that web applications run with minimal required permissions and that file inclusion operations are restricted to predefined safe directories. The remediation process should include comprehensive code review to identify similar patterns in other file handling operations and implementation of secure coding practices that align with established security frameworks such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.