CVE-2011-0775 in PivotX
Summary
by MITRE
pivotx/modules/module_image.php in PivotX 2.2.2 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via a non-existent file in the image parameter, which reveals the installation path in an error message. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-0775 affects PivotX 2.2.2, a content management system that suffers from insecure error handling practices. This issue manifests when the application processes requests through pivotx/modules/module_image.php, specifically when handling the image parameter. The flaw demonstrates a classic information disclosure vulnerability where the system fails to properly sanitize user input, leading to the exposure of sensitive system information. When an attacker supplies a non-existent file path in the image parameter, the application generates an error message that inadvertently reveals the complete installation path of the PivotX system on the server filesystem.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-200, which defines information exposure through error messages, and represents a fundamental breakdown in the application's security posture regarding input validation and error handling. The flaw enables attackers to gather critical system information that could be leveraged for further exploitation attempts. The exposure of the installation path provides adversaries with valuable reconnaissance data that could inform subsequent attacks targeting the specific server environment. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it occurs without requiring authentication or special privileges, making it accessible to any remote attacker who can interact with the application's image module.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates a foundation for more sophisticated attacks. An attacker who discovers the installation path can potentially map the application's directory structure, identify other potentially vulnerable components, and plan targeted exploitation strategies. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1212, which covers exploitation for credential access through information gathering activities. This information disclosure could enable attackers to craft more precise attacks against the system, potentially leading to privilege escalation or further compromise of the application environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-0775 should focus on implementing proper input validation and error handling mechanisms. The application should sanitize all user-supplied parameters before processing them, particularly file paths and image references. Error messages should be generic and not reveal system-specific information such as installation paths or file system details. Organizations should also implement proper logging and monitoring to detect unusual patterns of requests that might indicate exploitation attempts. The most effective long-term solution involves upgrading to a patched version of PivotX that addresses this vulnerability, as the flaw represents a fundamental design weakness in the application's security architecture that cannot be adequately mitigated through workarounds. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and security headers can provide additional layers of protection against similar information disclosure vulnerabilities.