CVE-2008-4758 in PHP-Daily
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in download_file.php in PHP-Daily allows remote attackers to read arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the fichier parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4758 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the download_file.php component of the PHP-Daily web application. This issue arises from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters before processing file operations. The vulnerability specifically affects the fichier parameter which is used to determine which file should be downloaded from the server. When an attacker submits a malicious payload containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or similar constructs, the application processes these inputs without proper sanitization, allowing unauthorized access to arbitrary local files on the server filesystem.
This directory traversal vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category known as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')". The flaw enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and retrieve sensitive files that should remain protected within the server's file system. The security implications are severe as this vulnerability can potentially expose configuration files, database credentials, source code, and other confidential information stored on the same server. Attackers can leverage this weakness to escalate their privileges and gain deeper access to the compromised system.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-4758 extends beyond simple file disclosure, as it can serve as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks. According to ATT&CK framework category T1083 (File and Directory Discovery), this vulnerability allows adversaries to enumerate the file system structure and identify sensitive resources. The attack surface is particularly concerning for web applications that host sensitive data, as the vulnerability can be exploited through simple HTTP requests without requiring authentication or advanced technical skills. The remote nature of this exploit means that attackers can leverage it from any location, making it a high-priority security concern for organizations running affected PHP-Daily installations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should implement strict parameter validation that rejects any input containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or similar constructs. The recommended approach includes implementing a whitelist-based validation system that only accepts pre-defined, safe file names or paths. Additionally, the application should utilize secure file access methods that prevent path resolution outside of designated directories through techniques such as canonical path resolution and chroot jails. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by configuring file access permissions to ensure that the web application can only access necessary files and directories. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file access patterns and prevent exploitation attempts.