CVE-2003-1179 in Advanced Poll
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Advanced Poll 2.0.2 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the include_path parameter in (1) booth.php, (2) png.php, (3) poll_ssi.php, or (4) popup.php, the (5) base_path parameter to common.inc.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2003-1179 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting Advanced Poll version 2.0.2, which falls under the broader category of insecure direct object references and remote code execution vulnerabilities. This issue stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the application's file inclusion mechanisms, creating pathways for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The vulnerability manifests across multiple entry points including booth.php, png.php, poll_ssi.php, popup.php, and common.inc.php, specifically targeting the include_path and base_path parameters that control file inclusion operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the include_path or base_path parameters to reference external malicious files, bypassing normal access controls and file validation mechanisms. This type of vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of argument delimiters in a command, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code through code injection. The flaw allows attackers to inject malicious PHP code through these parameters, potentially enabling full system compromise and persistent access. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it affects multiple files within the application, increasing the attack surface and exploitation opportunities.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to web application security and system integrity. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data theft, or service disruption. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services, and T1059, which covers execution of malicious code through command injection. The attack vector allows for privilege escalation and lateral movement within network environments, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on the affected application.
Effective mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the Advanced Poll application to the latest secure version, implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, and configuring web server restrictions to prevent inclusion of remote files. Organizations should also implement proper parameter validation using allowlists, disable dangerous PHP functions like include() and require() when user input is involved, and employ web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security audits can help prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of validating all user inputs and avoiding dynamic file inclusion operations without proper security controls, as highlighted in OWASP Top 10 2021 category A03: Injection and the corresponding remediation strategies outlined in NIST SP 800-53 security controls.