CVE-2008-6316 in PHPmyGallery
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in _conf/core/common-tpl-vars.php in PHPmyGallery 1.0 beta2 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the lang parameter, a different issue than CVE-2008-6316 and a different vector than CVE-2008-6318.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/17/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-6316 represents a directory traversal flaw within PHPmyGallery version 1.0 beta2 that specifically affects the _conf/core/common-tpl-vars.php file. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of path traversal attacks where an attacker can manipulate file path references to access files outside of the intended directory structure. The issue manifests when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize input parameters, particularly the lang parameter that controls language localization settings.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the lang parameter to include directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) which allows attackers to navigate upward through the file system hierarchy. When the application processes this malformed input without proper sanitization, it can inadvertently include and execute arbitrary local files that exist on the server filesystem. This represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that enables attackers to access sensitive files including configuration files, database credentials, or even system files that should remain protected from web-based access.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant security risks for systems running PHPmyGallery 1.0 beta2 as it allows remote attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected server. The ability to include and execute local files means that attackers could gain access to sensitive information, modify application behavior, or even escalate privileges depending on the server configuration and file permissions. This vulnerability specifically aligns with CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory and represents a direct threat to the principle of least privilege in system security.
The attack vector for this particular vulnerability differs from other related issues such as CVE-2008-6318, indicating that while multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities may exist within the same application, each requires specific mitigation approaches. The distinction in attack vectors suggests that the vulnerability may be present in different code paths or components within the PHPmyGallery application, making comprehensive security auditing essential for identifying all potential entry points. Organizations should consider implementing input validation controls, proper file access controls, and regular security assessments to protect against similar vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the affected PHPmyGallery version to a secure release that addresses the directory traversal issue. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used for file inclusion operations, can prevent exploitation. Security configurations should enforce strict file access controls and ensure that web applications operate with minimal required permissions. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can also provide additional layers of protection against such attacks, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution. Organizations should also conduct regular security training for developers to prevent similar issues in future application development cycles and maintain up-to-date vulnerability management processes.