CVE-2015-4181 in phpMyBackupPro
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in get_file.php in phpMyBackupPro 2.1 through 2.5 allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the view parameter. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information. NOTE: this vulnerability exists due to an incomplete fix to CVE-2015-4180.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/31/2025
The directory traversal vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-4181 affects phpMyBackupPro versions 2.1 through 2.5, specifically within the get_file.php component. This security flaw represents a critical weakness in the application's input validation mechanisms, allowing remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the server through manipulation of the view parameter. The vulnerability stems from an incomplete remediation of a previous issue, CVE-2015-4180, which demonstrates the complexity of addressing path traversal vulnerabilities in web applications. The core problem manifests when the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input, enabling attackers to exploit the .. (dot dot) sequence to navigate outside the intended directory structure and access sensitive files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs in the get_file.php script where the view parameter is processed without adequate validation or sanitization. When an attacker submits a malicious payload containing directory traversal sequences such as ../../../etc/passwd or similar constructs, the application interprets these sequences as legitimate file paths rather than malicious input. This flaw directly maps to CWE-22, which defines improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The vulnerability enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially retrieve confidential information, including database credentials, configuration files, and other sensitive system data that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-4181 extends beyond simple file disclosure, as it provides attackers with a foothold for further exploitation within the compromised system. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data theft, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate file system access but also represents a potential entry point for attackers to escalate privileges and conduct more sophisticated attacks. Organizations running affected versions of phpMyBackupPro face significant risk, as the vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous in publicly accessible environments. The incomplete fix referenced in the vulnerability description indicates that the original patch for CVE-2015-4180 was insufficient to fully address the underlying path traversal issue.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should immediately upgrade to patched versions of phpMyBackupPro or apply the appropriate security patches provided by the vendor. The remediation process must include thorough review and strengthening of all file handling functions to ensure that directory traversal sequences are properly detected and rejected. Security measures should incorporate proper path normalization, canonicalization, and access control enforcement to prevent unauthorized file access. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in their web applications, particularly focusing on input validation and access control mechanisms. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of complete remediation efforts and the potential risks associated with partial or inadequate security fixes.