CVE-2009-2792 in Really Simple CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in plugings/pagecontent.php in Really Simple CMS (RSCMS) 0.3a allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the PT parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-2792 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Really Simple CMS version 0.3a, specifically affecting the plugings/pagecontent.php script. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of improper input validation and weak access control mechanisms that enable attackers to manipulate file system access paths. The issue stems from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied input parameters, particularly the PT parameter, which is processed without adequate validation to prevent malicious path manipulation attempts.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious request containing directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) within the PT parameter value. When the vulnerable application processes this input, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the path components, allowing the attacker to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access arbitrary local files on the server. This flaw enables remote code execution through file inclusion mechanisms, potentially allowing attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the web application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system compromise. Attackers can leverage this weakness to access sensitive files including configuration files, database credentials, user information, and potentially system files that could provide elevated privileges. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the CMS by undermining the integrity of file access controls and enabling unauthorized file operations. According to CWE-22, this represents a classic path traversal vulnerability that allows attackers to access files and directories outside the intended scope.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is significant as it affects the content management system's plugin architecture, which typically has broad access to system resources. When combined with other attack vectors or reconnaissance activities, this vulnerability can serve as a stepping stone for more sophisticated attacks. The weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 which involves initial access through spearphishing attachments, where attackers might use directory traversal to gain access to system files or execute malicious code within the CMS environment.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures. The primary fix involves implementing strict parameter validation that rejects or filters out directory traversal sequences before processing user input. Organizations should also implement proper access controls that restrict file system access to only intended directories and consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious path traversal attempts. Additionally, regular security updates and patch management processes should be established to address similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack. The remediation approach should follow security best practices outlined in OWASP Top 10 and NIST guidelines for web application security, emphasizing the importance of principle of least privilege and defense in depth strategies to prevent unauthorized file access and execution.