CVE-2009-4974 in TotalCalendar
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in box_display.php in TotalCalendar 2.4 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files and possibly have unspecified other impact via a .. (dot dot) in the box parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-4974 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in TotalCalendar 2.4's box_display.php component that enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the affected system. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the application's file handling mechanisms, specifically in how the box parameter is processed. The flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate the file path traversal by injecting .. (dot dot) sequences, thereby bypassing normal access controls and potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive system files, configuration data, or other restricted resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which categorizes directory traversal attacks as a fundamental weakness in input validation. When the box parameter contains directory traversal sequences, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before using it in file operations, creating an opportunity for attackers to navigate the file system beyond intended boundaries. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when applications directly use user-supplied input in file system operations without proper path validation or canonicalization checks. The impact extends beyond simple file reading, potentially enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code, access database files, read system configuration files, or gain insights into the application's internal structure and architecture.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using TotalCalendar 2.4, as it can be exploited remotely without authentication requirements, making it particularly dangerous in internet-facing environments. The unspecified other impacts mentioned in the CVE description suggest potential additional consequences such as privilege escalation, denial of service, or information disclosure that could compromise the entire system. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive data, including but not limited to database credentials, application configuration files, or user information stored within the calendar application's data structures. The vulnerability's exploitation is straightforward, requiring only basic knowledge of directory traversal techniques and making it a preferred target for automated scanning tools and script kiddies.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should encompass multiple layers of defense to protect against directory traversal attacks. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor's patch or upgrade to a newer version of TotalCalendar that addresses this issue. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures within the application code is essential, including the use of allow-list validation for file parameters and proper path canonicalization functions. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can provide additional detection and blocking capabilities for directory traversal attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege in application design, ensuring that applications operate with minimal necessary permissions and validate all user inputs before processing them in file system operations. This particular vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in preventing a wide range of injection attacks and underscores the need for comprehensive security testing throughout the software development lifecycle.