CVE-2008-4667 in ArabCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in rss.php in ArabCMS 2.0 beta 1 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the rss parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4667 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the ArabCMS 2.0 beta 1 content management system. This security weakness resides in the rss.php script which fails to properly validate user input parameters, specifically the rss parameter that controls the inclusion of RSS feed files. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and path validation mechanisms that allow malicious actors to manipulate file inclusion operations through the use of directory traversal sequences. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting .. (dot dot) sequences into the rss parameter to navigate outside the intended directory boundaries and access arbitrary local files on the server. This flaw 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 operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file disclosure to encompass full remote code execution capabilities when combined with other attack vectors or when the application processes the included files as executable code. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain access to sensitive system files, configuration data, database credentials, and potentially execute arbitrary commands on the affected server. The implications are particularly severe for web applications that process user-supplied input without proper validation, as this creates an attack surface that can be leveraged for persistent access, data exfiltration, and system compromise. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 which describes the exploitation of vulnerabilities in web applications to gain unauthorized access to systems.
The exploitation of CVE-2008-4667 requires minimal technical sophistication and can be achieved through standard web application penetration testing tools or manual exploitation techniques. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper file access controls in web applications, particularly those handling user input for file operations. Organizations running affected versions of ArabCMS should immediately implement mitigations including parameter validation, proper input sanitization, and the implementation of secure file inclusion practices. The recommended remediation involves implementing strict input validation that rejects or sanitizes directory traversal sequences, employing secure coding practices that prevent direct file path manipulation, and ensuring that all file operations are performed within restricted directories. Additionally, network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a prime example of why defense-in-depth strategies are essential in modern cybersecurity practices, as a single unpatched vulnerability can provide attackers with complete system compromise.