CVE-2005-0565 in phpWebSite
Summary
by MITRE
The Announce module in phpWebSite 0.10.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by setting the Image field to reference a PHP file whose name contains a .gif.php extension.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/30/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-0565 represents a critical security flaw in the Announce module of phpWebSite version 0.10.0 and earlier systems. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and improper file handling mechanisms within the module's image processing functionality. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating the Image field parameter to reference a specifically crafted PHP file with a .gif.php extension, effectively bypassing normal file type restrictions and executing malicious code on the target server. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of insecure file handling and improper content validation that allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code within the web application's execution context.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability relies on the web application's failure to properly validate file extensions and content types when processing image uploads or references. When phpWebSite processes the Image field parameter, it appears to accept file names ending with .gif.php without performing adequate checks to determine whether the actual file content matches the declared extension. This creates a path traversal and code execution vector where attackers can upload or reference PHP files that are subsequently executed by the web server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the server's PHP processing capabilities to execute malicious code, bypassing typical security measures that might block direct PHP file uploads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise potential. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to the web server, potentially leading to data theft, service disruption, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of phpWebSite's Announce module, which typically handles announcements and news updates, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to compromise content management systems. This flaw can result in complete system takeover, allowing adversaries to modify or delete content, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors within the affected environment. The attack requires minimal sophistication and can be automated, making it particularly attractive to malicious actors seeking to exploit vulnerable web applications at scale.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation, file type checking, and content verification mechanisms. Organizations should immediately upgrade to phpWebSite versions that address this vulnerability through proper file extension validation and content type checking. The recommended approach includes implementing strict file extension filtering that prevents files with potentially dangerous extensions from being processed, as well as validating the actual content of uploaded files against their declared extensions. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and input sanitization measures can prevent attackers from manipulating the Image field parameter to reference malicious files. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which addresses insecure file upload vulnerabilities, and corresponds to attack techniques in the ATT&CK framework that involve code execution through web application vulnerabilities. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other web applications, as this represents a common pattern of insecure file handling that has been observed across numerous web platforms and content management systems.