CVE-2008-5818 in eDContainer
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in eDreamers eDContainer 2.22, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the lg parameter. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/21/2024
The CVE-2008-5818 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the eDreamers eDContainer 2.22 web application that exploits a fundamental security weakness in file inclusion mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically targets the index.php script where user input is improperly validated before being used in file operations. The flaw manifests when the magic_quotes_gpc PHP configuration directive is disabled, creating an environment where malicious input can bypass normal sanitization measures and directly manipulate file system operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to craft malicious URLs that include directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) in the lg parameter, enabling them to navigate the file system and access arbitrary local files on the server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization practices within the application's file inclusion logic. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, PHP does not automatically escape special characters in GET, POST, and COOKIE data, leaving the application responsible for proper input sanitization. The lg parameter in the index.php script accepts user-supplied input without adequate validation or filtering, allowing attackers to inject directory traversal sequences that manipulate the file path resolution. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which defines the weakness of improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability creates a scenario where an attacker can potentially access sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, or other system resources that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system compromise potential. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary local files, which may include system scripts, configuration files, or even malicious payloads that could be stored on the server. This capability enables attackers to escalate privileges, gain persistent access, or establish backdoors within the compromised system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in web hosting environments where multiple applications share the same server, as it could potentially allow attackers to access files belonging to other applications or even system-level files that contain critical security information. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566.001 for spearphishing attachment, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code through file inclusion mechanisms that can be triggered via web-based attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5818 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most immediate and effective fix involves properly validating and sanitizing all user input before it is used in file operations, implementing strict input validation that rejects directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e. Organizations should also consider implementing proper access controls and privilege separation, ensuring that the web application runs with minimal required privileges and cannot access sensitive system files. Additionally, enabling magic_quotes_gpc or implementing equivalent input sanitization mechanisms at the application level provides an additional layer of protection. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file access patterns and directory traversal attempts in web server logs. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in OWASP Top 10 and NIST guidelines, specifically addressing input validation and file access controls as critical security measures. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in legacy applications that may not have been properly updated or patched.