CVE-2018-16549 in PHP File Browser Script
Summary
by MITRE
HScripts PHP File Browser Script v1.0 allows Directory Traversal via the index.php path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16549 affects HScripts PHP File Browser Script version 1.0 and represents a critical directory traversal flaw that enables unauthorized access to sensitive system files. This vulnerability resides within the index.php script where the path parameter fails to properly validate or sanitize user input, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate file access requests. The flaw allows malicious actors to navigate beyond the intended directory structure and potentially access restricted files, configuration data, or system resources that should remain protected from external inspection.
This directory traversal vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The technical implementation of this flaw occurs when user-supplied input containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ is passed directly to file system operations without adequate validation. The script fails to implement proper input sanitization or path normalization techniques that would prevent attackers from exploiting the lack of access controls to traverse the file system hierarchy.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable attackers to access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other confidential data stored on the server. An attacker could potentially leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or gain deeper access to the underlying system infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the web application and its hosted data, potentially leading to complete system compromise if combined with other exploitation techniques or if the application has elevated privileges.
Security practitioners should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file system operations. The recommended approach involves implementing a whitelist-based validation mechanism that only accepts predefined, safe paths or using secure file access libraries that properly handle path normalization. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and restricting file system permissions for the web application can significantly reduce the impact of such vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious path traversal attempts and enforce security policies consistent with the principle of least privilege as defined in cybersecurity frameworks and industry standards.