CVE-2019-7429 in Property Rental Software
Summary
by MITRE
PHP Scripts Mall Property Rental Software 2.1.4 has directory traversal via a direct request for a listing of an uploads directory such as the wp-content/uploads/2016/08 directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/04/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-7429 affects PHP Scripts Mall Property Rental Software version 2.1.4, representing a critical directory traversal flaw that exposes sensitive system information through improper input validation. This weakness allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and retrieve files from the server's file system by manipulating directory paths in direct HTTP requests. The specific exploitation vector targets the wp-content/uploads/2016/08 directory structure, which indicates the software's integration with wordpress-based systems and highlights the potential for broader impact within wordpress ecosystems. The vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input parameters that are directly used in file system operations without proper validation or encoding.
Directory traversal vulnerabilities fall under the CWE-22 category, which classifies improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. These flaws occur when applications fail to properly validate or sanitize user input that is used in file system operations, allowing attackers to access files outside of the intended directory structure. The attack typically involves manipulating path separators or directory navigation sequences such as ../ or ..\ to move up directory levels and access restricted files. In the context of CVE-2019-7429, the vulnerability specifically enables unauthorized access to uploaded files and potentially sensitive configuration data stored within the wordpress uploads directory structure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can provide attackers with access to sensitive files including but not limited to database configuration files, user credentials, application source code, and other confidential data stored within the affected directory structure. The exposure of wp-content/uploads directories specifically targets the wordpress content management system's file storage mechanism, potentially allowing attackers to retrieve uploaded property listings, images, and other media files that may contain sensitive information about properties, landlords, or tenants. This vulnerability can be exploited by remote attackers without authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The potential for escalation exists if the application has write permissions to the affected directories, enabling attackers to upload malicious files and achieve remote code execution.
Security practitioners should implement multiple layers of mitigation to address this vulnerability effectively. Input validation and sanitization should be enforced at all entry points where directory paths are constructed or manipulated, ensuring that user-supplied data cannot contain path traversal sequences. The application should implement proper access controls and file system permissions that prevent unauthorized access to sensitive directories. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in the codebase, with particular attention to file system operations and path handling functions. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring solutions can help detect and block suspicious directory traversal attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments), indicating potential for both information gathering and further attack vectors through the exposure of sensitive files and system information. Organizations should also ensure that their software inventory includes up-to-date versions of PHP Scripts Mall Property Rental Software to prevent exploitation of this known vulnerability.