CVE-2005-0721 in eXPerience2
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in modules.php in eXPerience2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by modifying the file parameter to reference a URL on a remote web server that contains the code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-0721 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the eXPerience2 content management system's modules.php script. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object reference and remote code execution issues that have been extensively documented in cybersecurity literature. The flaw stems from the application's improper validation of user input parameters, specifically the file parameter that controls which module to load. When an attacker manipulates this parameter to reference a remote URL containing malicious PHP code, the system inadvertently executes the remote payload, creating a severe security breach. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code on the target server without requiring authentication or privileged access.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a straightforward yet devastating mechanism where an attacker crafts a malicious URL that includes the target server's modules.php script with a modified file parameter. The eXPerience2 application fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before incorporating it into the file inclusion process, directly executing the remote code provided in the URL. This vulnerability is classified as a CWE-98 issue, which specifically addresses "Inclusion of Code from Untrusted Source" and represents one of the most dangerous categories of web application vulnerabilities. The flaw operates at the application layer and demonstrates a fundamental failure in input validation and secure coding practices. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited from any location with internet access, making it a significant threat to web server security and potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2005-0721 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation can result in data theft, system modification, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability creates a persistent backdoor that attackers can use to maintain access to the compromised system. Organizations running eXPerience2 systems are particularly vulnerable because this flaw can be exploited without any prior knowledge of system credentials or privileged access. The attack vector is simple enough that even less sophisticated attackers can leverage this vulnerability effectively, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools. This vulnerability also aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059 for command and script interpreter and T1078 for valid accounts, as it can be used to establish persistent access and execute commands on the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary solution involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Organizations should disable the ability to include remote files entirely and implement strict whitelisting of allowed modules or files. The use of secure coding practices such as the principle of least privilege and input validation should be enforced throughout the application development lifecycle. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other applications. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping web applications updated and patched, as this flaw was likely addressed in subsequent versions of the eXPerience2 platform. Security awareness training for developers should emphasize the critical importance of validating all user inputs and avoiding direct inclusion of external resources without proper sanitization measures.