CVE-2011-3758 in ::mound::
Summary
by MITRE
::mound:: 2.1.6 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 lib/smarty/libs/sysplugins/smarty_internal_template.php and certain other files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/10/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-3758 affects ::mound:: version 2.1.6 and represents a sensitive data exposure issue that enables remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to critical system information. This flaw manifests through direct requests to php files within the application's directory structure, specifically targeting error handling mechanisms that inadvertently disclose the application's installation path. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it provides attackers with precise knowledge of the system's file structure, which serves as a foundational element for subsequent exploitation attempts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the application's error handling and logging mechanisms within the smarty templating system components. When certain php files are accessed directly, the system generates error messages that contain the full installation path of the application. This occurs in files such as lib/smarty/libs/sysplugins/smarty_internal_template.php and other related components within the smarty library. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and insufficient error message sanitization practices that violate fundamental security principles outlined in CWE-209, which addresses "Information Exposure Through an Error Message." The error messages are not properly sanitized to remove sensitive path information, creating a direct information disclosure channel that can be exploited by remote attackers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with crucial reconnaissance data that significantly reduces the effort required for subsequent attacks. Knowledge of the exact installation path allows threat actors to craft more targeted attacks, potentially leading to directory traversal, arbitrary code execution, or other privilege escalation opportunities. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1068 (Exploitation for Privilege Escalation) by enabling attackers to gather system information that facilitates further compromise. This information disclosure can be leveraged to bypass security controls, as attackers can now predict file locations and potentially exploit other vulnerabilities that might be present in the same directory structure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3758 should focus on implementing comprehensive error handling practices that prevent sensitive information disclosure. Organizations should configure their applications to use generic error messages that do not reveal installation paths or system details. This involves modifying the smarty templating system to sanitize error outputs and implementing proper logging mechanisms that do not expose sensitive paths. The fix should include disabling direct access to system files and implementing proper access controls that prevent unauthorized users from accessing internal php components. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular security audits to identify similar information disclosure vulnerabilities and ensure that all error handling mechanisms adhere to security best practices. This vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing proper input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and other industry security standards.