CVE-2024-0341 in Inis
Summary
by MITRE • 01/09/2024
A vulnerability was found in Inis up to 2.0.1. It has been rated as problematic. This issue affects some unknown processing of the file /app/api/controller/default/File.php of the component GET Request Handler. The manipulation of the argument path leads to path traversal: '../filedir'. The exploit has been disclosed to the public and may be used. The identifier VDB-250109 was assigned to this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-0341 represents a critical path traversal flaw within the Inis content management system version 2.0.1 and earlier. This weakness resides in the GET request handler component located at /app/api/controller/default/File.php, where improper input validation allows attackers to manipulate file path arguments. The vulnerability manifests when an attacker crafts a malicious request containing path traversal sequences such as '../filedir', enabling unauthorized access to files outside the intended directory structure. This issue has been publicly disclosed and carries a VDB-250109 identifier, indicating its recognition within security databases and potentially making it accessible to threat actors. The flaw directly relates to CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. Such vulnerabilities fall under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566.001 for spearphishing attachment, as attackers often exploit path traversal to gain access to sensitive configuration files or system resources that could facilitate further compromise. The attack vector leverages the application's insufficient validation of user-supplied input, particularly in file path parameters, allowing arbitrary file access through crafted requests that traverse the file system hierarchy.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, potentially enabling attackers to read sensitive system files, configuration data, or even execute arbitrary code if the application lacks proper access controls. The affected GET request handler processes file paths without adequate sanitization, creating a direct pathway for attackers to navigate beyond the intended application boundaries. This weakness can be exploited to access critical application components, user data, or system configuration files that should remain protected. The vulnerability's disclosure status means that threat actors may already be actively targeting systems running vulnerable versions of Inis, increasing the urgency for remediation. Organizations utilizing this software face potential data breaches, system compromise, and regulatory compliance violations. The path traversal attack can be particularly devastating when combined with other vulnerabilities, as attackers may use this access to escalate privileges or pivot to other systems within the network. Security teams must consider the potential for this vulnerability to be used as a reconnaissance tool, allowing attackers to map application file structures and identify additional attack surfaces.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-0341 should focus on immediate remediation through software updates to the latest stable version of Inis, which should contain patches addressing the path traversal vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization measures for all file path parameters, particularly those processed through GET request handlers. The implementation of proper access controls and least privilege principles can significantly reduce the impact of successful exploitation attempts. Security configurations should include directory traversal prevention mechanisms, such as canonicalization checks and path validation routines that reject suspicious path sequences. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and blocking malicious requests containing path traversal patterns. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack. The fix should also incorporate proper logging and monitoring of file access attempts to detect anomalous behavior that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should establish incident response procedures specifically addressing path traversal vulnerabilities and ensure that system administrators are trained to recognize and respond to potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification as problematic indicates that it requires immediate attention and should be prioritized alongside other critical security issues in vulnerability management programs.