CVE-2012-0987 in ImpressCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in edituser.php in ImpressCMS 1.2.x before 1.2.7 Final and 1.3.x before 1.3.1 Final allows remote authenticated users to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the icmsConfigPlugins[sanitizer_plugins][] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0987 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the ImpressCMS content management system affecting versions 1.2.x prior to 1.2.7 Final and 1.3.x prior to 1.3.1 Final. This security weakness resides in the edituser.php script which processes user input through the icmsConfigPlugins[sanitizer_plugins][] parameter without adequate validation or sanitization. The flaw enables authenticated remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms by exploiting the .. (dot dot) sequence, allowing them to traverse directory structures and access arbitrary local files on the server. This type of vulnerability falls 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 security implications extend beyond simple file access as this vulnerability can potentially enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, making it a severe threat to web application security.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an authenticated user account within the ImpressCMS system, which significantly reduces the attack surface compared to unauthenticated attacks. However, the impact remains substantial as the authenticated user can leverage this flaw to include and execute local files on the server. The attack vector specifically targets the parameter handling within the edituser.php file where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization. This allows an attacker to craft malicious requests containing directory traversal sequences that bypass normal file access controls and potentially gain access to sensitive system files, configuration data, or even execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate sanitization of user-provided data before it is used in file system operations, creating a direct pathway for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-0987 extends far beyond immediate file access capabilities, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of the affected web application. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to view sensitive configuration files that may contain database credentials, encryption keys, or other critical system information. The vulnerability also enables attackers to potentially upload and execute malicious files, creating persistent backdoors or establishing command and control channels. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving privilege escalation and persistence, specifically covering T1059 for command and script interpreters and T1078 for valid accounts. Organizations running affected versions of ImpressCMS face significant risks including data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations, particularly in environments where the CMS handles sensitive user information or critical business data.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems to versions 1.2.7 Final or 1.3.1 Final where the directory traversal protection has been implemented. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including input validation and sanitization of all user-provided parameters, particularly those used in file operations. The implementation of proper access controls and least privilege principles can help limit the impact if exploitation occurs, ensuring that even if an attacker successfully traverses directories, they cannot access critical system files or execute arbitrary code. Network monitoring and intrusion detection systems should be configured to detect suspicious file inclusion patterns and directory traversal attempts. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments of their web applications, focusing on parameter validation and input sanitization practices. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in the future, as this vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing directory traversal attacks. The remediation process should also include user access reviews to ensure that only authorized personnel have access to administrative functions that could be exploited through this vulnerability.