CVE-2004-2041 in e107
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in secure_img_render.php in e107 0.615 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by modifying the p parameter to reference a URL on a remote web server that contains the code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2041 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the e107 content management system version 0.615, specifically within the secure_img_render.php component. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The flaw exists due to inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input parameters, particularly the p parameter that controls image rendering functionality. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating the p parameter to point to external web servers hosting malicious PHP code, effectively bypassing local security controls and gaining unauthorized execution privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic remote file inclusion attack vector where the application directly incorporates user-provided URLs without proper validation or sanitization. When the secure_img_render.php script processes the p parameter, it fails to verify that the referenced resource originates from trusted sources or that it contains legitimate content. This oversight allows attackers to inject malicious PHP code through external URLs, which then gets executed within the context of the web application. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under CWE-88, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an eval() context, and CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code. The attack chain typically involves crafting a malicious URL containing PHP payload and passing it through the vulnerable p parameter, resulting in code execution on the target server.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-2041 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data breach potential. Successful exploitation enables attackers to gain full control over the affected web server, allowing them to execute commands, access sensitive data, modify content, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations using outdated e107 versions, creating a significant risk for websites that have not implemented proper security updates or patches. The attack surface is broad as any user with access to the vulnerable parameter can exploit this flaw, making it particularly dangerous in environments where user input is not properly validated. Additionally, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services, and T1059, covering command and scripting interpreters, as it allows for arbitrary code execution through PHP interpreter manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2041 must focus on immediate patching and input validation improvements. Organizations should prioritize updating to e107 versions that address this vulnerability, as the original 0.615 release contains no built-in protections against such attacks. Implementing strict input validation and sanitization measures becomes critical, including whitelisting acceptable parameter values, using absolute paths instead of user-controllable URLs, and implementing proper access controls for image rendering functionality. Security measures should also include disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious parameter patterns, and conducting regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities. The remediation process must incorporate proper parameter validation, input filtering, and output encoding to prevent malicious code from being executed. Organizations should also consider implementing security monitoring to detect exploitation attempts and establish incident response procedures for rapid remediation when such vulnerabilities are discovered in their systems.