CVE-2008-5894 in Mediatheka
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in Mediatheka 4.2 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the lang parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5894 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Mediatheka 4.2 content management system that exposes remote attackers to arbitrary file inclusion and execution capabilities. This vulnerability specifically affects the index.php script where the lang parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization measures. The flaw stems from insufficient restrictions on user-supplied input that allows attackers to manipulate file path references through the use of directory traversal sequences such as .. which enables navigation outside the intended directory structure. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious value containing directory traversal sequences in the lang parameter of the index.php script. When the application processes this input without proper validation, it allows the attacker to specify arbitrary local file paths that may include system configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive resources. The attack vector leverages the application's failure to properly sanitize user input before using it in file inclusion operations, creating a scenario where legitimate file access functions can be manipulated to access unauthorized resources. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1566.001 which involves the use of malicious file content to gain initial access or escalate privileges.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-5894 extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the affected server, potentially gaining complete control over the web application environment. The vulnerability enables access to sensitive system files including configuration files, database connection details, and potentially user credentials stored in accessible locations. Depending on the server configuration and file permissions, attackers may also be able to read system files such as /etc/passwd or other critical configuration data that could provide further insights for additional attacks. The vulnerability's remote nature makes it particularly dangerous as it requires no local system access or prior authentication to exploit.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5894 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application code. The most effective approach involves removing or properly encoding user-supplied input before it is used in file inclusion operations, particularly by implementing whitelist validation that only allows predetermined, safe language parameters. Additionally, developers should employ proper file access controls and ensure that the application runs with minimal required privileges to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The implementation of secure coding practices including input validation, output encoding, and proper file access controls directly addresses the root cause of this vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts, while ensuring all systems are patched with the latest security updates to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in the environment.