CVE-2004-2195 in CMS Lite
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in Zanfi CMS lite 1.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the inc parameter.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/25/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-2195 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Zanfi CMS lite 1.1 content management system. This issue exists in the index.php file where the inc parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations, which directly violates fundamental secure coding principles and represents a classic example of insecure direct object reference vulnerability.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL containing a crafted value for the inc parameter that points to a remote malicious file. When the vulnerable application processes this parameter, it attempts to include the specified file, thereby executing any PHP code contained within it. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-88, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more broadly aligns with CWE-94, which encompasses the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The attack vector operates through the standard HTTP protocol, making it accessible to remote attackers without requiring local system access or authentication credentials, thereby significantly expanding the potential threat surface.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected server with the privileges of the web application user. This can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to the server environment, potentially leading to further lateral movement within network infrastructure. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for phishing with malicious attachments, as attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deliver malicious payloads and establish footholds within target environments. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can potentially compromise multiple systems from a single attack vector without physical presence or prior access to the network.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of the affected Zanfi CMS lite 1.1 installation, as this represents the most effective defense against the specific flaw. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters are thoroughly validated before being used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of a whitelist approach for acceptable file inclusion paths, combined with proper parameter encoding and escaping, can effectively prevent malicious input from being processed. Additionally, the application should be configured to disable remote file inclusion capabilities entirely, as this functionality should not be required for normal operation. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of defense, while regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. System administrators should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege, ensuring that web application processes run with minimal required permissions to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.