CVE-2018-25393 in Navigate CMS
Summary
by MITRE • 05/29/2026
Navigate CMS 2.8.5 contains a path traversal vulnerability that allows authenticated users to download arbitrary files by injecting directory traversal sequences in the id parameter. Attackers can send GET requests to navigate_download.php with path traversal payloads ../../../cfg/globals.php to access sensitive configuration files and system files outside the intended directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/31/2026
The Navigate CMS 2.8.5 contains a critical path traversal vulnerability that represents a significant security risk for organizations relying on this content management platform. This vulnerability exists within the navigation_download.php component where user input is not properly sanitized before being used to construct file paths. The flaw allows authenticated attackers to manipulate the id parameter through directory traversal sequences such as ../../../cfg/globals.php, enabling them to access files outside the intended directory structure. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate path sanitization mechanisms that fail to prevent malicious path manipulation attempts.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows established patterns documented in CWE-22 Path Traversal and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 File and Directory Discovery. When an authenticated user submits a GET request to navigate_download.php with crafted traversal sequences, the application processes these inputs without proper validation, leading to unauthorized file access. The specific payload ../../../cfg/globals.php demonstrates how attackers can move up directory trees to reach sensitive configuration files that should remain protected from external access. This type of vulnerability typically occurs when applications use user-supplied data directly in file system operations without proper sanitization or access control measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with access to critical system configuration files that may contain database credentials, encryption keys, and other sensitive administrative data. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors, as the leaked configuration files often contain enough information for attackers to escalate privileges or establish persistent access. Organizations using Navigate CMS 2.8.5 face potential data breaches, unauthorized system modifications, and compliance violations that could result in significant financial and reputational damage. The vulnerability affects all authenticated users, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by insiders or compromised accounts.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures within the navigation_download.php component. Organizations must ensure that all user-supplied parameters undergo proper filtering to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. The recommended approach involves implementing strict path validation that verifies file access requests against a whitelist of allowed directories or employs proper path normalization techniques that resolve absolute paths before file operations. Additionally, organizations should implement principle of least privilege access controls and consider deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block known path traversal attack patterns. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other components of the CMS. The fix should align with industry standards such as OWASP Top 10 and NIST cybersecurity frameworks, ensuring comprehensive protection against this class of vulnerabilities while maintaining system functionality and user access requirements.