CVE-2012-5652 in Drupal
Summary
by MITRE
Drupal 6.x before 6.27 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information about uploaded files via a (1) RSS feed or (2) search result.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2021
Drupal 6.x versions prior to 6.27 contain a significant information disclosure vulnerability that affects the core content management system's handling of file metadata within RSS feeds and search results. This vulnerability stems from insufficient access controls and improper sanitization of file-related data when generating these specific output formats. The flaw allows remote attackers to extract sensitive information about uploaded files through two distinct vectors: RSS feed generation and search result displays. When Drupal processes file uploads, it stores metadata including file paths, names, and potentially other identifying information that should remain restricted to authorized users. The vulnerability manifests because the system fails to properly filter or restrict access to this metadata when rendering RSS feeds or search results, exposing potentially sensitive file system information to unauthorized parties. This issue represents a classic case of insufficient input validation and access control enforcement, aligning with CWE-200 which addresses improper information exposure and CWE-284 which covers improper access control mechanisms. The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers who do not possess direct system access but can interact with the Drupal application through standard web interfaces. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gather information about the file system structure, including potential file paths that may reveal system layout or contain clues about other vulnerabilities. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure as this metadata could provide attackers with additional attack surface information, potentially leading to more severe exploits. The vulnerability affects organizations running Drupal 6.x installations where RSS feeds or search functionality is enabled, making it particularly concerning given the widespread use of this version of the CMS. This weakness is particularly dangerous because it operates at the application level and can be exploited without requiring specialized tools or deep system knowledge. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution risk when combined with other weaknesses, though in this specific case it primarily serves as an information disclosure vector. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1592 (Gather Victim Host Information) as it enables adversaries to collect system information through legitimate application features. The exposure of file metadata through RSS feeds and search results creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited over time, as these features are commonly enabled and regularly accessed by both users and automated systems. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to Drupal 6.27 or later versions immediately, as this release includes patches that properly sanitize file metadata in both RSS feed and search result outputs. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and monitoring for unusual RSS feed or search query patterns can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider disabling RSS feeds and search functionality if these features are not essential to operations, as this provides an additional layer of defense against information disclosure attacks. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and output sanitization in web applications, particularly in CMS platforms where user-generated content and system metadata interact through various interface mechanisms.