CVE-2005-2061 in UBB.Threads
Summary
by MITRE
Infopop UBB.Threads before 6.5.2 Beta allows remote attackers to include arbitrary files via the language parameter in a cookie followed by a null (%00) byte.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2061 affects Infopop UBB.Threads software versions prior to 6.5.2 Beta, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that exploits improper input validation mechanisms. This vulnerability resides in the application's handling of the language parameter within HTTP cookies, creating an opportunity for remote attackers to manipulate the software's file inclusion process. The flaw specifically manifests when an attacker crafts a malicious cookie containing a language parameter that includes a null byte sequence, enabling unauthorized file inclusion operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input within the cookie handling mechanism. When the application processes the language parameter from the cookie, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. The null byte injection technique exploits the way many applications process string parameters, where the null byte character %00 terminates string processing, potentially allowing attackers to bypass normal input validation checks. This creates a path where arbitrary file inclusion can occur, enabling attackers to access files that should normally be restricted.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to include malicious files from remote locations, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the application's core functionality by allowing unauthorized access to file system resources, which could result in data theft, system infiltration, or service disruption. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous in environments where the application is publicly accessible.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically relates to improper input validation in file inclusion contexts. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" and T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application" within the adversary lifecycle. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices that have been consistently identified as a primary attack vector in web application security assessments. Organizations running affected versions of UBB.Threads face significant risk exposure, as the vulnerability enables attackers to escalate privileges and potentially establish persistent access to their systems.
The recommended mitigation strategies include immediate deployment of the vendor-provided patch version 6.5.2 Beta, which addresses the input validation flaw in the language parameter handling. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization measures, including the removal or encoding of null bytes from cookie parameters, can provide temporary protection. Network-level controls such as web application firewalls should be configured to monitor and block suspicious cookie patterns containing null byte sequences. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify any potential exploitation attempts and implement proper access controls to limit the impact of such vulnerabilities. Regular security updates and vulnerability management processes should be enforced to prevent similar issues from occurring in other software components.