CVE-2004-1427 in Korweblog
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in main.inc in KorWeblog 1.6.2-cvs and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by modifying the G_PATH parameter to reference a URL on a remote web server that contains the code, as demonstrated in index.php when using .. (dot dot) sequences in the lng parameter to cause main.inc to be loaded.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/08/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1427 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting KorWeblog version 1.6.2-cvs and earlier installations. This vulnerability resides within the application's handling of the G_PATH parameter in the main.inc file, which is loaded through the index.php script. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code by manipulating the lng parameter to include directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) that cause the application to load the main.inc file from an attacker-controlled remote server. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the application's file inclusion mechanisms, creating a pathway for remote code execution that directly compromises the affected system's security posture.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The attack vector operates through the manipulation of file path parameters that should be strictly controlled and validated. The technical implementation involves the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations. When an attacker supplies a malicious G_PATH parameter containing a URL reference, the application's code execution flow is hijacked to load and execute PHP code from the remote server, effectively bypassing local security controls and potentially granting full administrative access to the vulnerable web application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a direct pathway to compromise the entire web hosting environment. Successful exploitation can result in complete system takeover, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors within the affected infrastructure. The vulnerability affects not only the targeted application but also poses risks to the underlying web server and any other applications hosted on the same server. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it a prime target for automated scanning tools and opportunistic attackers. The attack chain typically involves initial reconnaissance to identify vulnerable applications, followed by crafting malicious payloads that leverage the directory traversal sequences to achieve remote code execution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1427 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected KorWeblog installations to the latest stable versions that address the file inclusion vulnerability. System administrators should implement input validation measures that strictly filter and sanitize all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of PHP's safe_mode and open_basedir directives can provide additional protection layers, though these are not foolproof solutions. Network-level defenses should include web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious patterns in URL parameters, particularly those containing directory traversal sequences. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scans to identify similar weaknesses in other web applications and implement secure coding practices that prevent such vulnerabilities from being introduced in future development cycles. The remediation process must also include monitoring for exploitation attempts and establishing incident response procedures to address potential compromise scenarios.