CVE-2011-3745 in Hycus
Summary
by MITRE
HycusCMS 1.0.3 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via a direct request to a .php file, which reveals the installation path in an error message, as demonstrated by templates/hycus_template/template.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/10/2019
CVE-2011-3745 represents a sensitive information disclosure vulnerability affecting HycusCMS version 1.0.3 that enables remote attackers to extract installation path details through direct requests to php files. This flaw falls under the category of information disclosure vulnerabilities as defined by CWE-200, where system information is inadvertently exposed to unauthorized parties. The vulnerability manifests when attackers make direct requests to specific php files within the application structure, particularly targeting files in the templates directory such as templates/hycus_template/template.php. The error message generated by the application reveals the full installation path, which constitutes a critical security risk as it provides attackers with precise system location details.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs due to insufficient error handling within the CMS framework. When a direct request is made to a php file that contains a configuration or include statement, the application fails to properly sanitize error messages or implement appropriate access controls. This allows the error output to display the absolute file path where the application is installed on the server, effectively providing attackers with a map of the server's file structure. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation and error management practices that violate fundamental security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten 2017, specifically the A03:2017-Sensitive Data Exposure category.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability significantly increases the attack surface for potential exploitation. The disclosed installation path provides attackers with crucial information needed for subsequent attacks, including potential directory traversal exploits, privilege escalation attempts, or targeted attacks against specific system components. The exposure of the installation path enables attackers to craft more sophisticated attack vectors that could lead to complete system compromise. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication or special privileges to exploit, making it a low-hanging fruit for malicious actors seeking to gain deeper insights into the target system.
The attack pattern associated with this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1083 - File and Directory Discovery tactic, where adversaries enumerate system information to understand the target environment. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability represents a classic example of insecure error handling that can be addressed through proper input validation, error message sanitization, and access control implementation. Organizations using HycusCMS 1.0.3 should immediately implement mitigations including disabling direct file access, implementing proper error handling mechanisms, and ensuring that error messages do not contain sensitive system information. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits and the need for proper application hardening practices to prevent information disclosure through error messages.
Recommended mitigations for CVE-2011-3745 include implementing proper access controls to prevent direct access to php files, configuring the web server to return generic error messages instead of detailed system information, and applying the latest security patches from the vendor. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious direct file access patterns. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure error handling practices and the potential consequences of exposing system information through application error messages. Regular security assessments and proper configuration management are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from compromising system integrity and confidentiality.