CVE-2008-5291 in FuzzyLime
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in code/track.php in FuzzyLime 3.03 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via directory traversal sequences in the p parameter, a different vector than CVE-2007-4805 and CVE-2008-3165.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5291 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the FuzzyLime 3.03 content management system that exposes remote attackers to arbitrary code execution capabilities. This security weakness specifically affects the code/track.php script and operates through the manipulation of the p parameter, creating a pathway for malicious actors to access and execute local files on the target system. The vulnerability differs significantly from previously identified issues such as CVE-2007-4805 and CVE-2008-3165, establishing it as a distinct attack vector that requires separate mitigation strategies.
The technical implementation of this directory traversal vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the FuzzyLime application's file inclusion mechanisms. When the p parameter receives directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate these inputs before processing them in file operations. This flaw allows attackers to manipulate the file path resolution logic and gain access to files outside the intended directory structure, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary local code. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited without authentication, making it particularly dangerous in environments where the application is accessible over the network.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5291 extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system compromise capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious code on the affected server, potentially leading to complete system takeover, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not need physical access to the system or local network privileges to carry out successful attacks. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors and increases the potential damage scope significantly, as it can be exploited from anywhere on the internet.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization measures, proper file path handling, and the implementation of secure coding practices. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and command execution through web application interfaces. Mitigation strategies should include upgrading to patched versions of FuzzyLime, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting comprehensive security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The remediation process must also involve thorough code reviews to prevent similar issues in future development cycles and adherence to secure coding standards that address directory traversal threats specifically.