CVE-2008-6591 in LightNEasy
Summary
by MITRE
LightNEasy "no database" (aka flat) version 1.2.2, and possibly SQLite version 1.2.2, allows remote attackers to create arbitrary files via the page parameter to (1) index.php and (2) LightNEasy.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2018
CVE-2008-6591 represents a critical file creation vulnerability affecting LightNEasy content management systems in their flat file database mode. This vulnerability exists in version 1.2.2 and potentially in the SQLite version of the same release, presenting a significant security risk to web applications utilizing this CMS. The flaw manifests through improper input validation in the page parameter handling mechanism, allowing remote attackers to manipulate the system into creating arbitrary files within the web server's filesystem. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks. The attack vector leverages the index.php and LightNEasy.php scripts, which serve as primary entry points for the CMS functionality, making the exploitation surface particularly broad.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input passed through the page parameter. When an attacker submits a malicious page parameter value, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file creation operations. This allows the attacker to specify arbitrary file paths that bypass normal file creation restrictions, potentially enabling the creation of malicious files such as web shells or configuration modifications. The vulnerability operates at the application layer, exploiting weaknesses in input validation and file handling mechanisms rather than targeting network protocols or system-level vulnerabilities. The attack can be executed remotely without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which describes executing malicious code through command injection or file manipulation, and specifically targets the privilege escalation and persistence capabilities of attackers.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-6591 extends beyond simple file creation, as it provides attackers with a foundation for more sophisticated attacks. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to upload malicious scripts, modify existing files, or create backdoor access points within the web application. The vulnerability essentially grants an attacker the ability to modify the web server's file system contents, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Organizations running LightNEasy in flat file mode are particularly at risk since the vulnerability affects the core functionality of the CMS, making it difficult to isolate or contain the attack. The flat file database approach, while simpler than traditional database systems, introduces unique risks when input validation is insufficient, as demonstrated by this vulnerability. The impact is amplified by the fact that the vulnerability affects multiple entry points within the application, increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6591 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization measures within the LightNEasy application. Organizations should immediately upgrade to patched versions of the CMS if available, as the vulnerability has been recognized and addressed in subsequent releases. The recommended approach involves implementing strict validation of all user inputs, particularly those used in file creation operations, and ensuring that path traversal attempts are properly detected and blocked. Security measures should include whitelisting of allowed file names and paths, implementing proper access controls on web server directories, and conducting regular security audits of web applications. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. The remediation process should also include disabling unnecessary features and ensuring that file creation operations are properly restricted to authorized users only. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within the organization's infrastructure.