CVE-2004-2740 in PHProjekt
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in authform.inc.php in PHProjekt 4.2.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to include arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the path_pre parameter.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-2740 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the PHProjekt project management software version 4.2.3 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the authform.inc.php component where the application fails to properly validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The specific parameter affected is path_pre which is processed without adequate sanitization, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code through URL references.
This vulnerability falls under the broader category of insecure direct object references and remote code execution threats as classified by CWE-22 and CWE-94 respectively. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate the application's file inclusion mechanism by supplying a malicious URL in the path_pre parameter, effectively allowing them to execute arbitrary code on the target server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the application level and can be exploited without requiring authentication or specialized privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute malicious code on the affected server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or service disruption. The vulnerability affects all installations running PHProjekt 4.2.3 or earlier versions, making it a widespread concern for organizations utilizing this project management platform. The attack vector is particularly insidious as it can be executed remotely through web-based interfaces, requiring no physical access to the target system.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with several tactics and techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically covering technique T1190 for exploit public-facing application and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including patching to the latest available version of PHProjekt, implementing input validation controls, and disabling remote file inclusion features where possible. Additionally, network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution attacks that can fundamentally compromise system integrity and availability.