CVE-2009-1768 in Ramazaitencms0.9.7.6
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in download.php in Rama Zaiten CMS 0.9.8 and earlier allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1768 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Rama Zaiten Content Management System version 0.9.8 and earlier releases. This security weakness resides in the download.php script which fails to properly validate user input parameters, specifically the file parameter that controls file access operations. The vulnerability enables malicious actors to manipulate the file parameter by injecting directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation, thereby bypassing intended access controls and gaining unauthorized access to sensitive system files.
This directory traversal vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22, which defines the weakness of improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly referred to as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw operates by allowing attackers to navigate outside the intended directory structure where legitimate files are stored, potentially accessing system configuration files, database credentials, source code files, or other sensitive information that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, making it a significant threat to systems running vulnerable versions of the CMS.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can access critical system files including but not limited to configuration files that may contain database connection strings, administrative credentials, or application-specific secrets. The vulnerability also poses risks to data integrity and confidentiality, as attackers can potentially read or even modify system files through the traversal mechanism. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability can result in unauthorized data access, system reconnaissance, and potential privilege escalation depending on the system permissions and file access controls in place.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with several techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the T1083 - File and Directory Discovery tactic, where adversaries seek to understand the system's file structure. Additionally, the vulnerability supports broader attack patterns related to credential access and privilege escalation. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file access operations. The most effective remediation involves implementing proper parameter validation that filters out directory traversal sequences, using secure coding practices that enforce strict file access controls, and ensuring that file operations occur within predetermined safe directories. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and access control mechanisms to prevent exploitation attempts and monitor for suspicious file access patterns that may indicate attempted exploitation of this vulnerability.