CVE-2025-30596 in include-file Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 04/03/2025
Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal') vulnerability in NotFound include-file allows Path Traversal. This issue affects include-file: from n/a through 1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-30596 represents a critical path traversal flaw within the NotFound include-file component of a software system. This weakness falls under the well-documented CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses improper limitation of pathname to restricted directories. The vulnerability manifests when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize file paths that are processed through the include-file functionality, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to access files outside of the intended directory structure. The affected include-file component appears to be part of a broader software framework where user input or external parameters are directly used in file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization measures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the include-file processing logic. When the system attempts to include or reference files through the include-file component, it does not properly restrict the pathname parameters to prevent traversal beyond designated directories. This allows attackers to craft malicious input sequences that can navigate through directory structures using techniques such as directory traversal sequences like ../ or ..\, potentially accessing sensitive system files, configuration data, or other restricted resources that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a core include-file functionality that is likely used extensively throughout the application, amplifying the potential impact of exploitation.
Operationally, this path traversal vulnerability can have severe consequences for system security and data integrity. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially read arbitrary files on the system, including sensitive configuration files, database credentials, application source code, or other confidential information. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure as it may enable further exploitation techniques such as remote code execution through the inclusion of malicious files, privilege escalation opportunities, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects include-file versions ranging from n/a through 1, suggesting a potential versioning issue or that the vulnerability exists in a specific release or development stage of the component. Organizations utilizing this include-file functionality are at risk of unauthorized data access and potential system infiltration, particularly in environments where proper access controls and security boundaries are not adequately enforced.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-30596 should focus on implementing robust input validation and sanitization measures within the include-file processing logic. The primary defense mechanism involves ensuring that all pathname parameters are properly validated against a whitelist of acceptable values or that directory traversal sequences are explicitly blocked during input processing. Organizations should implement proper path normalization techniques that resolve absolute paths and eliminate any relative path components that could lead to directory traversal. The solution should align with established security practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines, particularly focusing on input validation and secure coding practices. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls, regular security audits, and monitoring for anomalous file access patterns can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The remediation approach should also consider the ATT&CK framework's perspective on privilege escalation and credential access techniques that could leverage such path traversal vulnerabilities. Organizations should prioritize updating to patched versions of the include-file component and conduct thorough security testing to ensure that the vulnerability has been properly addressed without introducing new security issues.