CVE-2009-1948 in NewsBoard
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in forum.php in Unclassified NewsBoard (UNB) 1.6.4, when register_globals is enabled and magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allow remote attackers to (1) read arbitrary recently-modified files via a .. (dot dot) in the GLOBALS[filename] parameter or (2) include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the GLOBALS[UTE][__tplCollection][a][file] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1948 affects Unclassified NewsBoard version 164, specifically targeting the forumphp script where multiple directory traversal flaws exist. This critical security weakness arises from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's handling of user-supplied parameters. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the insecure configuration of register_globals being enabled and magic_quotes_gpc being disabled, creating an environment where malicious actors can exploit the application's file handling routines.
The technical flaw manifests through two distinct attack vectors that both utilize directory traversal sequences using double dots. The first vulnerability allows attackers to read arbitrary recently modified files by manipulating the GLOBALS[filename] parameter, while the second vector enables remote code execution through the GLOBALS[UTE][__tplCollection][a][file] parameter. Both attack paths exploit the lack of proper path validation and sanitization, enabling attackers to traverse the file system beyond intended boundaries and access sensitive files or execute arbitrary code on the server.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to affected systems as it provides attackers with the capability to read sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, and other system information. The ability to include and execute arbitrary local files creates a complete compromise scenario where attackers can deploy malware, establish backdoors, or perform further reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely, making it particularly attractive to malicious actors seeking to gain unauthorized access to systems.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and CWE-94 Code Injection categories, representing a combination of path traversal and code execution flaws. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a privilege escalation and persistence technique through file inclusion methods. Organizations should immediately disable register_globals and enable magic_quotes_gpc or implement proper input validation and sanitization measures. The recommended mitigations include upgrading to a patched version of UNB, implementing proper parameter validation, and ensuring that the application runs in a secure configuration where register_globals is disabled and magic_quotes_gpc is enabled to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited.