CVE-2012-1671 in phpPaleo
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in index.php in phpPaleo 4.8b155 and earlier allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the lang parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1671 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the phpPaleo content management system version 4.8b155 and earlier releases. This security weakness resides in the index.php script where the application fails to properly validate user input passed through the lang parameter, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of input data, specifically allowing attackers to inject directory traversal sequences using the .. (dot dot) notation to navigate outside the intended directory structure.
The technical implementation of this flaw enables attackers to manipulate the language parameter to access arbitrary local files on the server filesystem. When the phpPaleo application processes the lang parameter without proper validation, it directly incorporates user-supplied input into file inclusion operations, creating a path traversal condition that can be exploited to read sensitive files such as configuration data, database credentials, or other system files. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests that contain maliciously crafted directory traversal sequences in the lang parameter.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-1671 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code on the target system by including and executing local files, effectively gaining unauthorized access to the web server and potentially escalating privileges. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 - Improper Limiting of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory and falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, though the primary exploitation occurs through web-based file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the affected system, making it a critical concern for any organization running vulnerable versions of phpPaleo.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1671 require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures within the application code. Organizations should implement proper parameter validation that rejects or filters out directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e. The recommended approach involves using allow-list validation for language parameters, ensuring that only predetermined, legitimate language codes are accepted. Additionally, the application should enforce strict file inclusion practices by implementing secure coding techniques that prevent dynamic file inclusion based on user input. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious directory traversal patterns in HTTP requests. The most effective long-term solution involves upgrading to a patched version of phpPaleo that addresses this vulnerability, as the original vulnerable code structure cannot be effectively secured through workarounds alone. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file access patterns and directory traversal attempts that could indicate exploitation attempts against this vulnerability.