CVE-2005-2328 in Laffer
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in im.php in Laffer 0.3.2.6 and 0.3.2.7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the CFG_PATH variable.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2328 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Laffer content management system version 0.3.2.6 and 0.3.2.7. This issue specifically affects the im.php script which fails to properly validate user input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The vulnerability stems from the improper handling of the CFG_PATH variable, which is directly used in include or require statements without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms.
This flaw classifies under CWE-98, which describes improper control of code generation capabilities, and specifically manifests as a remote code execution vulnerability through insecure file inclusion practices. The vulnerability enables attackers to manipulate the CFG_PATH parameter to reference arbitrary PHP files hosted on remote servers, effectively allowing them to inject and execute malicious PHP code on the target system. The attack vector requires no authentication and can be exploited through simple HTTP requests, making it particularly dangerous in web applications where user input is not properly filtered.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. An attacker can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised server, potentially leading to complete system takeover. The vulnerability allows for the execution of malicious code that could be used to establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify website content, or launch further attacks against the internal network. Additionally, the vulnerability may enable attackers to escalate privileges and gain persistent access to the compromised system, making it a prime target for attackers seeking long-term access to web infrastructure.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to gain initial access. The flaw also maps to T1059, representing command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers can execute system commands through the included PHP files. The vulnerability's exploitation typically involves crafting a malicious URL with the CFG_PATH parameter pointing to a remote attacker-controlled PHP file, which then gets executed by the vulnerable web application. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation, parameter sanitization, and the removal of vulnerable code from production environments. The most effective immediate fix involves disabling remote file inclusion capabilities and ensuring all user-supplied input is properly validated before being used in file inclusion operations.