CVE-2015-0269: Contao Core directory traversal vulnerability
Summary
CVE-2015-0269: Contao Core directory traversal vulnerability. Affects contao/core across 2 version ranges.
>= 2.0.0, < 3.2.19
>= 3.4.0, < 3.4.4
Fixed in 3.2.19 or 3.4.4, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
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Background
Contao Core is a popular open-source content management system (CMS) used for creating and managing websites. It provides a wide range of features and functionalities, including file management and user authentication. However, a directory traversal vulnerability has been discovered in versions before 3.2.19 and 3.4.x before 3.4.4. This vulnerability allows remote authenticated backend users to view files outside their file mounts or the document root through unspecified vectors.
Vulnerability Detail
The directory traversal vulnerability in Contao Core allows authenticated backend users to bypass file access restrictions and view sensitive files on the server. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker with authenticated access to the backend can navigate through the file system and access files that are outside their designated file mounts or the document root. This could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information, such as configuration files or user data. The specific vectors through which this vulnerability can be exploited have not been disclosed.
How To Fix
Fixed versions by release line
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
>= 2.0.0, < 3.2.193.2.19composer require contao/core:3.2.19 -
>= 3.4.0, < 3.4.43.4.4composer require contao/core:3.4.4
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Workaround
As a temporary workaround, users can restrict access to the Contao backend to trusted individuals only. This can be achieved by implementing additional access controls, such as IP whitelisting or two-factor authentication. However, this workaround does not address the underlying vulnerability and should only be considered as a temporary measure until the system can be upgraded to a patched version.
Conclusion
The directory traversal vulnerability in Contao Core poses a moderate security risk, allowing authenticated backend users to view files outside their intended scope. To mitigate this vulnerability, it is crucial to upgrade Contao Core to version 3.2.19 or 3.4.4, depending on the currently installed version. Additionally, implementing additional access controls, such as IP whitelisting or two-factor authentication, can provide temporary protection until the upgrade is performed. For further assistance and support in vulnerability remediation, please contact DevNack.com.
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FAQ
A directory traversal vulnerability, also known as path traversal or directory climbing, is a security flaw that allows an attacker to access files or directories outside the intended scope of an application. In the case of Contao Core, this vulnerability enables authenticated backend users to view files outside their designated file mounts or the document root.
The directory traversal vulnerability in Contao Core can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information. Attackers with authenticated backend access can view files containing configuration details, user data, or other confidential information. This could potentially result in further security breaches or privacy violations.
You can use the Vulert Playground at Vulert Scanner to check if your Contao Core installation is affected by this vulnerability. Simply upload your composer.lock file, and Vulert will analyze it to identify any open-source vulnerabilities, including this directory traversal vulnerability.
There are no known instances of this vulnerability being actively exploited in the wild. However, it is always recommended to promptly apply security patches and upgrades to mitigate any potential risks.
You can find more information about the Contao Core directory traversal vulnerability, including the technical details and the official advisory, in the GitHub Advisory Database at the following link: https://github.com/github/advisory-database/blob/main/advisories/github-reviewed/2022/05/GHSA-4r6g-xhx7-fm36/GHSA-4r6g-xhx7-fm36.json
References
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for contao/core.
