CVE-2009-1770 in Flyspeck
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in includes/database/examples/addressbook.php in Flyspeck CMS 6.8 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the lang parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1770 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Flyspeck CMS version 6.8, specifically affecting the addressbook.php file located in the includes/database/examples directory structure. This weakness stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters before processing them within the application's file inclusion logic. The vulnerability manifests when the lang parameter receives input containing directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot), which allows attackers to manipulate the file system path resolution and access arbitrary local files on the server hosting the CMS. The flaw exists at the application level where user-controllable input directly influences the file inclusion process without adequate sanitization or validation checks.
From a technical perspective this vulnerability operates through the exploitation of insecure file handling practices that permit attackers to manipulate the application's path resolution mechanisms. When the application processes the lang parameter, it constructs file paths based on user input without proper validation, allowing maliciously crafted traversal sequences to navigate outside the intended directory boundaries. The directory traversal attack vector specifically targets the application's inability to distinguish between legitimate user input and potentially malicious path manipulation attempts, enabling unauthorized access to sensitive files that should remain protected within the application's restricted file system access controls. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category of Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a well-documented weakness in software development practices that directly relates to inadequate input validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file disclosure to encompass potential remote code execution capabilities and complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, and other confidential data stored on the server. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications. Additionally, the vulnerability could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to full system compromise and persistent backdoor access. The flaw represents a significant risk to organizations relying on Flyspeck CMS 6.8, as it provides an easily exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking to gain unauthorized access to their systems. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through malicious file execution and T1078 for valid accounts and legitimate credentials exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-1770 should prioritize immediate patching and code-level remediation to address the root cause of the vulnerability. Organizations must implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that reject or escape directory traversal sequences before they can influence file system operations. The recommended approach includes implementing a whitelist-based validation system that only accepts pre-approved parameter values, thereby eliminating the possibility of malicious traversal attempts. Additionally, the application should employ proper file inclusion practices that use absolute paths or predefined safe directories, preventing relative path resolution from being influenced by user input. Security measures should also include restricting file system access permissions for the web application, ensuring that even if traversal occurs, the attacker cannot access critical system files. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application, while implementing proper logging and monitoring to detect suspicious file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege when designing web applications that handle user input.