CVE-2017-8115 in Revolution
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal in setup/processors/url_search.php (aka the search page of an unused processor) in MODX Revolution 2.5.7 might allow remote attackers to obtain system directory information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/02/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-8115 represents a directory traversal flaw within the MODX Revolution content management system version 2.5.7. This security weakness exists in the setup/processors/url_search.php file, which serves as the search functionality for an unused processor component. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data before processing directory-related operations. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious requests that manipulate path traversal sequences, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive system directories and files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under the category of path traversal attacks, specifically classified as CWE-22 according to the Common Weakness Enumeration standards. The flaw manifests when the application processes user input without sufficient validation, allowing attackers to inject directory traversal sequences such as "../" or "..\\" into the URL parameters. This weakness enables adversaries to navigate the file system beyond the intended directories, potentially accessing configuration files, source code, or other sensitive resources that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it resides in the setup components of the application, which may not be regularly monitored or secured as rigorously as core application components.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-8115 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the ability to map the underlying file system structure of the affected MODX installation. This reconnaissance capability can serve as a foundation for more sophisticated attacks, including privilege escalation, data exfiltration, or the exploitation of additional vulnerabilities present in the system. The fact that this vulnerability exists in an unused processor component makes it particularly dangerous because administrators may not expect such functionality to be accessible or properly secured. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain insights into the server environment, identify other potential attack vectors, and potentially compromise the entire application infrastructure.
Organizations utilizing MODX Revolution 2.5.7 should immediately implement mitigations to address this vulnerability, including applying the official security patches released by the MODX development team. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls with signature-based detection capabilities to block known directory traversal attack patterns. Input validation should be strengthened across all user-facing components, particularly those handling file system operations or URL parameters. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting access to setup components and ensuring that only authorized personnel can access these administrative functions. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and code reviews to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in application components that may not be actively used but still present security risks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1083 technique for discovering system information, making it a critical target for defensive measures in comprehensive cybersecurity programs.