CVE-2008-6317 in PHPmyGallery
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in _conf/_php-core/common-tpl-vars.php in PHPmyGallery 1.5 beta allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the conf[lang] parameter, a different issue than CVE-2008-6318. NOTE: this might be the same issue as CVE-2008-6316.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6317 represents a directory traversal flaw within PHPmyGallery version 1.5 beta, specifically affecting the _conf/_php-core/common-tpl-vars.php script. This directory traversal vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation when processing the conf[lang] parameter, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file inclusion paths through the use of .. (dot dot) sequences. The flaw enables remote attackers to access arbitrary local files on the server by crafting malicious requests that exploit the improper handling of path traversal sequences in the language configuration parameter.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations. When the conf[lang] parameter contains directory traversal sequences such as ../, the application processes these sequences without adequate validation, resulting in the inclusion of unintended local files. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The vulnerability operates at the application layer where user input is directly incorporated into file system operations without proper sanitization or validation mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary code on the affected server by including and executing local files. This could potentially allow an attacker to read sensitive configuration files, access database credentials, or even upload and execute malicious code. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of PHPmyGallery's language configuration system, making it a critical security concern for any system utilizing this version. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, gain unauthorized access to system resources, or potentially compromise the entire web server hosting the application. The issue is particularly dangerous because it allows for remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures for all user-supplied parameters that influence file system operations. The recommended approach includes implementing strict whitelisting of valid language parameters, implementing proper path validation that prevents directory traversal sequences from being processed, and ensuring that all file inclusion operations occur within restricted directories. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious path traversal attempts, as well as regular security audits of application code to identify similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, upgrading to a patched version of PHPmyGallery or implementing proper parameter validation in the affected script would provide effective remediation. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566.001 for credential access through unauthorized access to system files. The security community should also consider this vulnerability in the context of broader directory traversal attack patterns and ensure comprehensive protection measures are in place to prevent similar issues in other applications.