CVE-2009-0330 in SCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in Simple Content Management System (SCMS) 1 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via directory traversal sequences in the p parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0330 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Simple Content Management System version 1, specifically affecting the index.php script. This security weakness enables remote attackers to exploit the system by manipulating the p parameter through directory traversal sequences, ultimately allowing for arbitrary local file inclusion and execution. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's file handling processes, creating an avenue for malicious actors to access sensitive system files and potentially execute harmful code. The flaw operates by accepting user-supplied input without proper restrictions on directory navigation characters, permitting attackers to traverse the file system beyond intended boundaries.
This directory traversal vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which categorizes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The attack vector leverages the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user input before processing file inclusion requests, creating a condition where attackers can manipulate the p parameter to access files outside the intended directory structure. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for arbitrary local file inclusion, meaning that successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise through the execution of malicious code or the disclosure of sensitive system information. The flaw exists at the application layer and can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it highly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise systems running vulnerable versions of SCMS.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. This could result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors within the compromised environment. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the system, as attackers can not only read sensitive files but also potentially modify system components or inject malicious payloads. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. Organizations running vulnerable versions of SCMS face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches, as the vulnerability can be exploited through simple web requests containing crafted directory traversal sequences.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application. The most effective approach involves filtering and sanitizing all user-supplied input, particularly parameters that control file inclusion operations, to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. Implementing a whitelist-based approach for file access, where only predetermined and safe file paths are allowed, provides robust protection against such attacks. Additionally, the application should employ proper access controls and privilege separation to limit the impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security configurations should include disabling unnecessary file inclusion features and implementing proper file system permissions to restrict access to sensitive system files. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to established security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for preventing directory traversal attacks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in other applications within the organization's infrastructure.