CVE-2009-2449 in ADbNewsSender
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in maillinglist/admin/change_config.php in ADbNewsSender before 1.5.6 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the path_to_lang parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2449 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in ADbNewsSender version 1.5.5 and earlier, specifically within the mailinglist/admin/change_config.php component. This directory traversal vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The flaw specifically affects the path_to_lang parameter which is used to determine language configuration files within the application's administrative interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability enables attackers to exploit the lack of proper path validation by injecting ../ sequences into the path_to_lang parameter, thereby traversing the file system directories and accessing arbitrary local files on the server. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution risk because successful exploitation allows attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to web application security as it enables attackers to access sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, or other system resources that should remain protected. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure to potential system compromise, as the ability to execute arbitrary local files means attackers could upload and execute malicious code, establish backdoors, or perform further reconnaissance. The attack vector requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the vulnerable web application.
Security practitioners should implement multiple layers of mitigation to address this vulnerability. The primary remediation involves updating ADbNewsSender to version 1.5.6 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization of the path_to_lang parameter. Additionally, implementing proper input validation that strips or rejects directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e in all user-supplied parameters helps prevent similar vulnerabilities. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and proper access controls should also be deployed to limit exposure and detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as exploitation may involve executing arbitrary code through file inclusion mechanisms, and T1566.002 for Phishing for Information, as attackers may use this vulnerability to gain initial access to systems. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar path traversal vulnerabilities across their web applications.