CVE-2009-2132 in 4images
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in global.php in 4images before 1.7.7, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via directory traversal sequences in the l parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2132 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the 4images content management system prior to version 1.7.7. This vulnerability specifically affects the global.php script and exploits a fundamental security weakness in how file paths are handled when the magic_quotes_gpc PHP configuration setting is disabled. The issue arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters, creating an avenue for malicious actors to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms within the application. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without authentication and allows for arbitrary code execution through carefully crafted directory traversal sequences.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the l parameter in the global.php script, which is used for including and executing local files. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application fails to properly sanitize user input, allowing attackers to inject directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ../../../ that can navigate outside the intended directory structure. This flaw enables an attacker to access files that should normally be restricted, potentially leading to the inclusion of system files, configuration files, or other sensitive resources that could be executed as PHP code. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-2132 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected server. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, data theft, or the installation of backdoors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access database configuration files, user credentials, or other sensitive information stored on the server. The vulnerability also enables attackers to upload and execute malicious files, potentially turning the compromised system into a command and control server for further attacks. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web hosting environments where multiple applications share the same server resources, as it can be used to escalate privileges and move laterally within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the 4images application to version 1.7.7 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for input validation and sanitization. Additionally, system administrators should ensure that magic_quotes_gpc is properly configured, though it's important to note that this setting is deprecated in modern PHP versions and should be replaced with proper input validation techniques. The recommended approach includes implementing strict input validation for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Security measures should also include restricting file permissions, implementing proper access controls, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to help identify and block exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059 for command and script injection and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, making it a significant concern for organizations implementing security frameworks based on the MITRE ATT&CK methodology.