CVE-2019-8407 in HongCMS
Summary
by MITRE
HongCMS 3.0.0 allows arbitrary file read and write operations via a ../ in the filename parameter to the admin/index.php/language/edit URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-8407 affects HongCMS version 3.0.0 and represents a critical path traversal flaw that enables unauthorized file system access. This vulnerability exists within the administrative interface of the content management system where the language editing functionality fails to properly sanitize user input parameters. The specific flaw occurs when the application processes the filename parameter in the admin/index.php/language/edit URI, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths through the use of directory traversal sequences such as ../ which can navigate outside the intended directory structure. This weakness directly violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates poor input validation practices that permit attackers to access sensitive system files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability leverages the absence of proper input sanitization and path validation mechanisms within the application's file handling routines. When an attacker submits a filename parameter containing ../ sequences, the application processes these traversal characters without adequate restrictions, potentially allowing access to configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive data stored outside the designated web root. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw enables both read and write operations, significantly expanding the attack surface and potential impact. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive information, modify critical system files, or even establish persistent access through file injection techniques.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-8407 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to modify system files and potentially execute arbitrary code within the application's context. This vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors, as it allows unauthorized modification of the CMS core files, language files, or configuration settings. The administrative interface being targeted indicates that successful exploitation could result in privilege escalation and full control over the content management system. Organizations running affected versions of HongCMS face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe because it affects the administrative functionality, which typically requires elevated privileges, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to gain unauthorized access to system resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-8407 should include immediate patching of the affected HongCMS version to the latest available release that addresses this path traversal vulnerability. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures that explicitly reject or encode directory traversal sequences in all file operations. The application should enforce strict path validation that ensures all file access operations remain within designated directories and reject any attempts to navigate outside the intended file system boundaries. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit administrative interface access to trusted IP addresses and authenticated users only. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of implementing proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application development, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1078 for valid accounts to prevent unauthorized access to system resources.