CVE-2009-1519 in Pecio
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in Pecio CMS 1.1.5 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the language parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2024
The CVE-2009-1519 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in Pecio CMS version 1.1.5 that exposes the system to remote code execution and data exfiltration attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the index.php file and occurs when the application fails to properly validate user input in the language parameter, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate file paths and access sensitive system files. The flaw stems from improper input sanitization and path resolution mechanisms within the content management system's core components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the universal directory traversal sequence ".." to navigate upward through the file system hierarchy. When an attacker supplies a malicious language parameter containing these sequences, the application processes the input without adequate validation, allowing the attacker to bypass normal file access controls. 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 vulnerabilities. The vulnerability exists because the application does not properly sanitize or validate the language parameter before using it to construct file paths, enabling attackers to access files outside the intended directory structure.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations utilizing Pecio CMS 1.1.5, as it allows remote attackers to access sensitive system information including configuration files, database credentials, user authentication data, and potentially system binaries. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure to include potential system compromise, as attackers could access files containing administrative credentials or application logic that could be used for further exploitation. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require local system access or physical presence, making it particularly dangerous in internet-facing applications. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing for Information) techniques, as attackers can systematically explore the file system and extract sensitive data.
The exploitation of this vulnerability typically involves crafting malicious URLs with directory traversal sequences in the language parameter, which can result in unauthorized access to critical system files such as configuration files, database connection details, or even system binaries. Organizations running this vulnerable version of Pecio CMS face potential data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and reputational damage if attackers successfully exploit this weakness. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation practices that are commonly addressed through secure coding guidelines and defensive programming techniques.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-1519 should prioritize immediate patching of the Pecio CMS to a version that addresses the directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, including whitelisting acceptable language parameters and implementing proper path resolution techniques that prevent directory traversal attacks. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls can provide additional protection by filtering out suspicious directory traversal sequences in URL parameters. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other applications and ensure comprehensive protection against path traversal attacks. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing proper security controls to prevent exploitation of known weaknesses in content management systems.