CVE-2011-0405 in PhpGedView
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in module.php in PhpGedView 4.2.3 and possibly other versions, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via directory traversal sequences in the pgvaction parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0405 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in PhpGedView version 4.2.3 and potentially other iterations of the software. This weakness resides within the module.php component and specifically exploits the absence of proper input validation when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled on the web server. The vulnerability manifests through the pgvaction parameter, which accepts directory traversal sequences that can be manipulated by remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server filesystem. Directory traversal vulnerabilities fall under the common weakness enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The attack vector leverages the fact that when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application fails to sanitize user input properly, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to bypass normal file access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables attackers to potentially access sensitive files including configuration databases, user credentials, application source code, and other confidential data stored on the server. When an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can navigate through the file system hierarchy using sequences such as ../ or ..\ to access files outside the intended web root directory. This capability allows for comprehensive reconnaissance of the server environment and can lead to complete system compromise if sensitive configuration files or database credentials are accessible. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where PhpGedView manages genealogical data for individuals or organizations, as the exposed files may contain personal identifiable information, user authentication details, or other sensitive data that could be exploited for identity theft or further attacks. The attack surface is widened when considering that the vulnerability affects multiple versions of the software, indicating a persistent flaw in the input validation mechanisms.
Security practitioners should recognize this vulnerability as part of the broader ATT&CK framework's technique T1213, which involves data from information repositories, and T1566, which covers credential access through various means including file system access. The recommended mitigations include implementing proper input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file operations. Organizations should ensure that magic_quotes_gpc is enabled or implement equivalent protection mechanisms such as custom input filtering or the use of secure coding practices that prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. Additionally, the software should be updated to the latest available version where this vulnerability has been patched, and administrators should conduct regular security assessments to identify similar flaws in other components of the web application stack. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper server configuration practices, as disabling magic_quotes_gpc without implementing alternative security measures creates dangerous exposure windows. Implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts, while regular security audits should be conducted to verify that no other similar vulnerabilities exist in the application's codebase.