CVE-2009-3583 in SQL-Ledger
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the Preferences menu item in SQL-Ledger 2.8.24 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the countrycode field.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/25/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-3583 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the SQL-Ledger accounting software version 2.8.24. This weakness exists specifically within the Preferences menu item functionality where the application fails to properly sanitize user input submitted through the countrycode field. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to manipulate file paths by inserting directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation, which enables them to access arbitrary local files on the server filesystem. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a fundamental security flaw that permits unauthorized access to sensitive system resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a crafted payload containing directory traversal sequences in the countrycode parameter through the Preferences interface. When the application processes this input without proper validation or sanitization, it inadvertently allows the attacker to traverse the filesystem hierarchy and access files that should remain protected. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can potentially allow attackers to read sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other confidential data stored on the same server. This flaw demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and proper file access controls that are fundamental requirements for secure application development practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially enable full system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain access to database connection strings, application configuration files, and potentially execute arbitrary code if the application has sufficient privileges to read and execute system files. The risk is amplified by the fact that this vulnerability affects a web-based application interface that is typically accessible over the network, making it exploitable by remote attackers without requiring physical access to the system. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1566 - Phishing and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables initial access and potential command execution capabilities through file inclusion attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms throughout the application. The most effective immediate fix involves implementing strict input validation on the countrycode field to reject any input containing directory traversal sequences or special characters that could be used to manipulate file paths. Additionally, the application should enforce proper file access controls using the principle of least privilege, ensuring that the web application has minimal required permissions to access only necessary files and directories. Organizations should also implement proper logging and monitoring of file access patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and input validation as outlined in OWASP Top 10 and ISO 27001 security standards, where proper sanitization of user inputs is considered a fundamental security control to prevent path traversal attacks.