CVE-2010-4239 in Wiki CMS Groupware
Summary
by MITRE
Tiki Wiki CMS Groupware 5.2 has Local File Inclusion
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-4239 represents a critical local file inclusion flaw within Tiki Wiki CMS Groupware version 5.2, classified under CWE-234 as improper handling of input data that leads to arbitrary file access. This vulnerability resides in the application's parameter processing mechanism where user-supplied input is not adequately validated or sanitized before being used to construct file paths. The flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate parameters that control file inclusion operations, potentially enabling them to access sensitive files on the server filesystem. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates at the local level, meaning that an attacker with minimal privileges or even unauthenticated access could exploit this weakness to read arbitrary files from the server's file system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate user input before incorporating it into file operations. When Tiki Wiki CMS Groupware processes user requests, it accepts parameters that are directly used to determine which files should be included or loaded. The lack of proper input sanitization means that an attacker can inject malicious paths or sequences that bypass normal file access controls. This vulnerability is categorized under the ATT&CK framework as part of the privilege escalation and persistence tactics, where an attacker can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to system resources. The flaw essentially allows for a form of path traversal attack where the application processes user input without proper boundary checks, enabling access to files outside of the intended directory structure.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-4239 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities or attack vectors. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could access configuration files containing database credentials, application secrets, or other sensitive information that could facilitate further attacks. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the system as it allows unauthorized file access, potentially enabling attackers to read system files, application source code, or sensitive user data. Organizations running Tiki Wiki CMS Groupware 5.2 are particularly at risk since this vulnerability can be exploited without requiring special privileges, making it an attractive target for automated attacks. The impact is compounded by the fact that this vulnerability exists in a widely used content management system, increasing the potential attack surface and the number of possible targets.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-4239 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application code. Organizations should immediately upgrade to patched versions of Tiki Wiki CMS Groupware that address this vulnerability, as the vendor has released updates to resolve the issue. Additionally, implementing proper parameter validation and using allowlists for file inclusion operations can prevent attackers from injecting malicious paths. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be configured to monitor for suspicious parameter patterns that could indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Security practitioners should also implement regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications within the organization's infrastructure. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and the potential consequences of inadequate security controls in web applications.