CVE-2004-1734 in Mantis
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in Mantis 0.19.0a allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by modifying the (1) t_core_path parameter to bug_api.php or (2) t_core_dir parameter to relationship_api.php to reference a URL on a remote web server that contains the code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-1734 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Mantis bug tracking system version 0.19.0a. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code through manipulation of specific parameters in the application's API files. The flaw specifically affects two distinct entry points within the Mantis codebase where user input is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper validation or sanitization. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal and code injection pattern that has been documented in numerous security frameworks and threat models.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied parameters in two core API files. When attackers modify the t_core_path parameter in bug_api.php or the t_core_dir parameter in relationship_api.php, they can inject URLs pointing to remote web servers containing malicious PHP code. This occurs because the application directly uses these parameters in include or require statements without validating their contents against a whitelist of acceptable values or performing proper input sanitization. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target server with the privileges of the web application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This flaw aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code. The attack vector demonstrates characteristics consistent with ATT&CK technique T1190, specifically exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain persistent access to the affected server, potentially using it as a pivot point for attacking internal network resources. The vulnerability affects the entire Mantis application ecosystem, as it operates at the core API level where critical system functions are performed. Organizations running affected versions of Mantis face significant risk of unauthorized access, data manipulation, and potential service disruption. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be automated, making it particularly attractive to threat actors. The flaw's persistence across multiple API endpoints indicates a systemic design issue in how the application handles parameter validation and file inclusion operations, suggesting that similar vulnerabilities may exist in other parts of the codebase.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-1734 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected Mantis version to the latest stable release. Organizations should implement input validation controls that prevent modification of critical parameters through user input, particularly in API endpoints. The recommended approach involves implementing strict whitelisting mechanisms for all file inclusion operations and ensuring that any user-supplied parameters are properly sanitized before being used in file system operations. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and blocking suspicious parameter modifications. Security teams should also implement regular vulnerability scanning and code review processes to identify similar flaws in other applications. The remediation process should include disabling remote file inclusion features where possible and implementing proper access controls for API endpoints. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates. This vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and demonstrates how seemingly minor input validation flaws can result in catastrophic security breaches. The incident serves as a reminder of the critical need for comprehensive security testing and the implementation of defense-in-depth strategies to protect against remote code execution vulnerabilities.