CVE-2004-2124 in Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
The register_globals simulation capability in Gallery 1.3.1 through 1.4.1 allows remote attackers to modify the HTTP_POST_VARS variable and conduct a PHP remote file inclusion attack via the GALLERY_BASEDIR parameter, a different vulnerability than CVE-2002-1412.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2124 resides within the Gallery photo gallery software version 1.3.1 through 1.4.1, specifically targeting the register_globals simulation functionality. This flaw represents a significant security weakness that enables remote attackers to manipulate PHP variables through crafted HTTP requests, creating potential pathways for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability operates through the manipulation of the GALLERY_BASEDIR parameter, which when improperly handled, allows attackers to influence the HTTP_POST_VARS variable and subsequently execute malicious code. This issue falls under the broader category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that rely on user-supplied parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way Gallery handles variable registration and parameter processing within its PHP environment. When the register_globals simulation is enabled, the application processes user input in a manner that does not properly sanitize or validate the GALLERY_BASEDIR parameter. This creates a condition where attacker-controlled input can be directly incorporated into the application's variable scope, effectively allowing modification of critical PHP variables. The flaw is particularly concerning because it leverages the same underlying mechanism as PHP's register_globals directive, which was deprecated due to its security implications. This vulnerability is classified as CWE-20, representing improper input validation, and demonstrates how legacy code patterns can create persistent security risks in web applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2004-2124 extends beyond simple data manipulation, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute remote code on vulnerable systems. Through the manipulation of the HTTP_POST_VARS variable, an attacker can potentially inject malicious PHP code into the application's execution environment, leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability creates a pathway for remote file inclusion attacks, where malicious files can be downloaded and executed on the target server. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote file inclusion to execute arbitrary code, and represents a critical threat to web application security. Organizations running affected Gallery versions face potential data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the photo gallery environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2004-2124 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability. The most effective approach involves disabling the register_globals simulation functionality within Gallery's configuration settings, as this eliminates the attack vector entirely. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in variable assignment contexts, will prevent malicious input from being processed. Organizations should also consider updating to newer versions of Gallery that have addressed this vulnerability, as version 1.4.2 and later releases contain fixes for the register_globals simulation issues. Network-based protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense by filtering malicious requests before they reach the vulnerable application. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper variable handling in PHP applications and the dangers of legacy code patterns that were deprecated for good reason, as outlined in the CWE standards for secure coding practices.