CVE-2008-5305 in TWiki
Summary
by MITRE
Eval injection vulnerability in TWiki before 4.2.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary Perl code via the %SEARCH{}% variable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/31/2025
The CVE-2008-5305 vulnerability represents a critical server-side code injection flaw in TWiki versions prior to 4.2.4 that fundamentally compromises the integrity and security of web applications relying on this platform. This vulnerability specifically targets the %SEARCH{}% variable processing mechanism within TWiki's template system, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary Perl code on the affected server. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the search functionality, allowing maliciously crafted search parameters to be interpreted as executable code rather than mere search queries.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from TWiki's handling of user-supplied data within the %SEARCH{}% macro, which processes search terms and parameters without adequate sanitization before executing them within the Perl interpreter context. When users provide search input containing malicious code within the %SEARCH{}% variable, the application fails to properly escape or validate this input, enabling attackers to inject and execute arbitrary Perl commands on the server. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.006 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Perl", demonstrating how attackers can leverage the platform's native scripting capabilities for malicious purposes.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5305 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected TWiki server and potentially the underlying operating system. Successful exploitation can lead to data breaches, system compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential lateral movement within network environments where TWiki instances operate. The vulnerability's remote nature means attackers can exploit it without requiring local access or authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible TWiki installations. Organizations using vulnerable TWiki versions face significant risks including unauthorized data modification, complete system takeover, and potential use as a stepping stone for broader network attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5305 primarily involve immediate patching to TWiki version 4.2.4 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization for the %SEARCH{}% macro functionality. Security administrators should also implement additional protective measures such as restricting search functionality for untrusted users, implementing web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious search parameters, and conducting thorough security assessments of TWiki configurations. Organizations should consider disabling or limiting the use of the %SEARCH{}% macro in contexts where user input is not properly trusted, and establish monitoring procedures to detect anomalous search activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in web applications and serves as a reminder of the potential catastrophic consequences when sanitization mechanisms fail in server-side processing environments.