CVE-2008-6793 in PTK
Summary
by MITRE
The get_file_type function in lib/file_content.php in DFLabs PTK 0.1, 0.2, and 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters after an arg1= sequence in a filename within a forensic image.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6793 resides within the DFLabs PTK (Portable Toolkit) software version 0.1, 0.2, and 1.0, specifically in the get_file_type function located in lib/file_content.php. This flaw represents a critical command injection vulnerability that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The vulnerability manifests when the application processes forensic image files containing filenames with shell metacharacters following an arg1= sequence, creating an avenue for malicious command execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the file content processing module. When the get_file_type function encounters a filename containing shell metacharacters such as semicolons, ampersands, or backticks, it fails to properly escape or filter these characters before using them in system commands. This improper handling creates a command injection scenario where attacker-controlled input can be interpreted as shell commands rather than simple filename data. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the forensic image processing context, where legitimate administrative users might process files from untrusted sources, making the attack surface broader than typical web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute any command with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to full system takeover, data theft, or persistent backdoor installation. The forensic image processing context adds additional risk as these images often contain sensitive data from various sources, including potentially compromised systems or systems under investigation. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter. The attack can be executed through simple HTTP requests containing malicious filenames, making exploitation relatively straightforward and automated.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the DFLabs PTK software to version 1.1 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Organizations should implement strict input sanitization measures, including proper escaping of shell metacharacters and validation of all filename inputs before processing. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of the affected system to untrusted networks. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block malicious requests targeting this specific vulnerability. The fix should include proper output encoding and input validation mechanisms that prevent shell metacharacters from being interpreted as commands, ensuring that all file content processing occurs within safe execution contexts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in legacy software systems that may be susceptible to command injection attacks.