CVE-2004-1660 in CuteNews
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in CuteNews 1.3.6 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the cutepath parameter to (1) show_archives.php or (2) show_news.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/19/2018
The CVE-2004-1660 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in CuteNews 1.3.6 and earlier versions that fundamentally compromises the security posture of affected web applications. This vulnerability resides within the PHP-based content management system's handling of user-supplied input, specifically targeting the cutepath parameter in two key script files. The flaw enables attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, effectively granting them remote code execution capabilities that can be leveraged for complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the CuteNews application's architecture. When the application processes the cutepath parameter through show_archives.php or show_news.php scripts, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This creates a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability that falls under the CWE-88 category of Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to include arbitrary files from remote servers, enabling them to execute malicious code that can range from simple command execution to full system takeover.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised server environment. Once exploited, attackers can establish backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the affected systems, making it a severe threat that can lead to complete system compromise. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries leverage publicly accessible applications to gain unauthorized access to systems.
Security professionals should recognize that this vulnerability represents a fundamental flaw in input handling and file inclusion mechanisms that was prevalent in legacy PHP applications of that era. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be automated using readily available attack tools, making it particularly dangerous for widespread deployment. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameter sanitization, and disabling remote file inclusion features. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping software updated and following secure coding practices that prevent such flaws from occurring in the first place. Remediation efforts must include both immediate patching of the affected application and broader security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other systems. The vulnerability serves as a historical example of why proper input validation and secure coding practices remain fundamental to application security and why organizations must maintain robust vulnerability management processes to prevent exploitation of known flaws.