CVE-2009-4154 in Elxis
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in includes/feedcreator.class.php in Elxis CMS allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the filename parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/04/2025
The CVE-2009-4154 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the Elxis Content Management System that stems from inadequate input validation within the feedcreator.class.php file. This vulnerability specifically affects the filename parameter processing logic where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file operations. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate file paths by injecting .. (dot dot) sequences into the filename parameter, enabling them to traverse the directory structure and access files outside the intended scope. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category known as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal')" which is classified as a high-severity issue in the Common Weakness Enumeration system. The vulnerability exists because the application does not implement proper path validation or sanitization mechanisms to prevent malicious path manipulation attempts.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious request containing directory traversal sequences in the filename parameter of the feedcreator.class.php script. When the CMS processes this input without proper validation, it attempts to access files using the manipulated path, potentially allowing access to sensitive system files such as configuration files, database credentials, or other confidential data. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be executed remotely without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal pattern where the application's file handling mechanism does not adequately restrict file access to predefined directories or validate that the requested file path remains within the intended boundaries.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to Elxis CMS installations as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other exploitation techniques. Attackers can potentially read sensitive files such as database configuration files, user credentials, or application source code that may contain additional vulnerabilities. The exposure of configuration files often provides attackers with database connection strings, encryption keys, and other critical system information that can be used for further attacks within the network. This vulnerability also enables potential data exfiltration and can facilitate more sophisticated attacks such as privilege escalation or lateral movement within the compromised environment. The impact extends beyond immediate data theft as the vulnerability can be leveraged to establish persistent access or deploy additional malware payloads.
Organizations affected by CVE-2009-4154 should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file operations. The recommended approach involves implementing proper path validation that ensures all file access operations remain within designated directories and reject any input containing directory traversal sequences. Security patches should be applied to update the feedcreator.class.php file with proper input sanitization routines and directory restriction mechanisms. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls with path traversal detection capabilities can provide an additional layer of protection. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers may use this vulnerability to discover and exfiltrate sensitive files from compromised systems. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security audits to detect similar vulnerabilities in other components of their CMS installations.