CVE-2008-5604 in My Simple Forum
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in My Simple Forum 3.0 and 4.1, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the action parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/13/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5604 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in My Simple Forum versions 3.0 and 4.1 that exploits improper input validation mechanisms. This weakness occurs within the index.php script where user-supplied parameters are not adequately sanitized before being processed, creating an avenue for remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion operations. The vulnerability specifically targets systems where the magic_quotes_gpc PHP configuration directive is disabled, which removes automatic escaping of special characters and leaves the application more susceptible to malicious input manipulation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the attacker's ability to inject directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation within the action parameter. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the action parameter, allowing an attacker to craft malicious URLs that traverse the file system hierarchy. This enables the inclusion and execution of arbitrary local files on the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The flaw operates at the application layer and demonstrates a classic lack of proper input validation and output encoding practices that are fundamental to secure coding standards.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or service disruption, as it can enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected server with the privileges of the web application user. This opens the door to privilege escalation, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without authentication, making it a prime target for automated scanning tools and opportunistic attackers. The exploitation chain typically involves identifying the vulnerable parameter, crafting a malicious traversal sequence, and then selecting an appropriate target file such as configuration files, log files, or system binaries that can be included and executed.
Security practitioners should consider this vulnerability in relation to CWE-22, which specifically addresses directory traversal and path traversal issues in software systems. The flaw also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers the execution of malicious code through web shells or file inclusion attacks. Mitigation strategies should include implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms, enabling magic_quotes_gpc or equivalent protection measures, and employing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious traversal sequences. Additionally, the application should be updated to a patched version of My Simple Forum, and the web server configuration should restrict access to sensitive files and directories to prevent unauthorized file inclusion operations.