CVE-2008-5953 in KTP Computer Customer Database
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in KTP Computer Customer Database (KTPCCD) CMS, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the p parameter to the default URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5953 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the KTP Computer Customer Database (KTPCCD) content management system. This weakness specifically manifests when the PHP configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, creating an exploitable condition that enables remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability resides in the handling of user-supplied input through the p parameter in the default URI, where improper validation allows attackers to craft malicious requests containing directory traversal sequences.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the .. (dot dot) sequence to navigate directories and access arbitrary local files on the server. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application fails to properly sanitize user input, allowing the attacker to inject malicious directory traversal sequences that bypass normal file access controls. This flaw 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 vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and sanitization in web applications, where user-controllable parameters are directly used in file operations without adequate security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to read sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other critical system files. The ability to include and execute local files opens pathways for privilege escalation, data exfiltration, and full system compromise. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute shell commands through the included files. Additionally, the vulnerability fits within ATT&CK technique T1566, representing the initial access phase through malicious file inclusion.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5953 require immediate implementation of multiple security controls. The primary defense involves enabling magic_quotes_gpc in PHP configuration, though this solution is considered deprecated in modern PHP versions and should be supplemented with proper input validation. Applications must implement strict input sanitization and validation, particularly for parameters used in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach includes implementing whitelisting mechanisms that restrict file access to predefined, safe directories and file extensions. Additionally, developers should employ secure coding practices such as using absolute paths for file operations, implementing proper access controls, and utilizing secure file inclusion functions that prevent path traversal sequences. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious directory traversal patterns in web server logs to detect potential exploitation attempts.