CVE-2014-8360 in GLPI
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in inc/autoload.function.php in GLPI before 0.84.8 allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .._ (dot dot underscore) in an item type to the getItemForItemtype, as demonstrated by the itemtype parameter in ajax/common.tabs.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/03/2022
The CVE-2014-8360 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the GLPI (Gestionnaire Libre de Parc Informatique) IT asset management system. This vulnerability exists within the file inc/autoload.function.php and affects versions prior to 0.84.8, making it a significant security concern for organizations relying on this open-source platform for system administration and inventory management. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation in the getItemForItemtype function, which processes the itemtype parameter through the ajax/common.tabs.php endpoint, creating a pathway for remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the itemtype parameter using .._ (dot dot underscore) sequences, which allows attackers to traverse the directory structure and access arbitrary local files on the server. This directory traversal mechanism enables attackers to include and execute local files that should normally be protected from external access, effectively bypassing the intended security boundaries of the application. The vulnerability specifically targets the autoload functionality that dynamically loads classes based on item type parameters, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged to load malicious code or access sensitive system files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. This could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the installation of backdoors and persistent access mechanisms. Organizations using GLPI for critical infrastructure management face severe risks, as this vulnerability could be exploited to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, including user credentials, system configurations, and inventory data. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation does not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for networked environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-8360 primarily involve upgrading to GLPI version 0.84.8 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization of the itemtype parameter. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while monitoring for suspicious file access patterns and unauthorized code execution attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and follows attack patterns consistent with the MITRE ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and defense evasion techniques. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input validation rules to prevent similar traversal attacks on other applications within their environment.