CVE-2014-9261 in Codoforum
Summary
by MITRE
The sanitize function in Codoforum 2.5.1 does not properly implement filtering for directory traversal sequences, which allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the path parameter to index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/19/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9261 affects Codoforum version 2.5.1 and represents a critical directory traversal flaw that stems from insufficient input validation within the application's sanitize function. This weakness allows remote attackers to manipulate file paths through the path parameter in index.php, enabling them to access arbitrary files on the server filesystem. The issue arises from the application's failure to properly filter or sanitize directory traversal sequences, specifically the .. (dot dot) notation that is commonly used to navigate up directory levels in file systems. When an attacker submits a malicious path parameter containing directory traversal sequences, the application processes these inputs without adequate validation, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive files such as configuration files, database credentials, or other system resources that should remain protected from external access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal attack vector where the sanitize function fails to properly handle special characters that indicate directory navigation. The flaw operates at the application layer and requires no authentication to exploit, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by any remote attacker with access to the affected web application. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. This weakness enables attackers to bypass access controls and retrieve files that are outside the intended directory structure, potentially exposing sensitive information that could be used for further exploitation or system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can access critical system files including configuration files that may contain database passwords, application secrets, or other sensitive credentials. The vulnerability also enables attackers to potentially read source code files, which could reveal implementation details that aid in developing more sophisticated attacks. Additionally, the ability to read arbitrary files could allow attackers to identify other vulnerabilities within the system or locate backup files that may contain sensitive information. The attack can be executed through simple HTTP requests, making it easily automatable and scalable across multiple targets.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including updating to a patched version of Codoforum that properly implements input validation and sanitization for directory traversal sequences. The fix should involve comprehensive input filtering that removes or encodes potentially dangerous characters including .., /, and \ sequences, ensuring that all user-supplied path parameters are validated against a whitelist of acceptable values. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious path traversal attempts, and conduct thorough security reviews of all input handling functions within the application. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be performed to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications, as path traversal issues are common in web applications and often result from insufficient input validation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices that align with OWASP Top Ten recommendations for preventing path traversal attacks and implementing proper access controls for file operations.