CVE-2012-1617 in OSClass
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in combine.php in OSClass before 2.3.6 allows remote attackers to read and write arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the type parameter. NOTE: this vulnerability can be leveraged to upload arbitrary files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2025
The CVE-2012-1617 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the OSClass content management system prior to version 2.3.6. This vulnerability specifically affects the combine.php script which is responsible for handling file operations within the application's asset management system. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization of the type parameter, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file paths through directory traversal sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the absence of proper path validation mechanisms in the combine.php script. When the application processes requests containing the type parameter with .. (dot dot) sequences, it fails to properly sanitize or restrict these path traversal attempts. This allows attackers to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access or manipulate files that should remain protected within the application's secure boundaries. The vulnerability specifically targets the file handling functionality that combines and processes various assets, making it particularly dangerous for attackers seeking to escalate privileges or access sensitive system components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file reading capabilities to include arbitrary file writing operations, significantly amplifying the threat level. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files to the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise through web shell deployment or other malicious payloads. The vulnerability enables unauthorized access to critical system files, configuration data, and user information stored within the application's directory structure. This represents a severe security breach that could result in data theft, system takeover, or denial of service conditions affecting the entire OSClass installation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1617 should prioritize immediate patching of affected OSClass installations to version 2.3.6 or later, which includes proper input validation and path sanitization measures. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation at multiple layers of the application architecture, particularly for all parameters that influence file system operations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and CWE-74 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component, while also mapping to ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter for executing malicious code through compromised file upload capabilities. Network segmentation and file access controls should be implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while regular security audits should verify that no unauthorized modifications have occurred within the application's file system.