CVE-2006-0725 in Plume CMS
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in prepend.php in Plume CMS 1.0.2, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to include arbitrary files via a URL in the _PX_config[manager_path] parameter. NOTE: this is a different executable and affected version than CVE-2006-2645.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-0725 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within Plume CMS version 1.0.2 that specifically exploits the dangerous combination of PHP's register_globals directive and improper input validation. This vulnerability exists in the prepend.php file and allows malicious actors to execute arbitrary code by manipulating the _PX_config[manager_path] parameter through a URL. The flaw demonstrates a classic path traversal and code execution vulnerability that has been documented in various security frameworks including CWE-94, which categorizes it as an "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" vulnerability. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only a single parameter manipulation to achieve remote code execution, making it highly attractive to attackers.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the dangerous configuration of PHP's register_globals setting being enabled on the target server. When register_globals is active, user-supplied input can automatically become global variables, bypassing normal input validation mechanisms. Attackers can craft malicious URLs that get processed through the _PX_config[manager_path] parameter, causing the application to include and execute arbitrary PHP code from remote servers. This creates a direct pathway for attackers to execute commands on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" highlights its nature as an attack vector targeting web applications accessible from the internet.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Once exploited, attackers can establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, and move laterally within network environments. The vulnerability affects not just the targeted CMS installation but potentially the entire server infrastructure, especially when multiple applications share the same server environment. Organizations running Plume CMS 1.0.2 with register_globals enabled face significant risk exposure, as this vulnerability can be exploited without any authentication requirements. The fact that this is a distinct vulnerability from CVE-2006-2645 indicates that multiple remote file inclusion flaws existed within the same software version, suggesting a broader architectural weakness in input handling and parameter validation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-0725 require immediate action to disable register_globals in PHP configuration, which is the most effective immediate fix. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules specifically designed to detect and block remote file inclusion attempts can provide additional protection layers. Regular security assessments and application patching should be conducted to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in the codebase. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-20 and ATT&CK technique T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" emphasizes the need for comprehensive application security hardening. Organizations should also consider implementing input/output filtering mechanisms and using secure coding practices that avoid direct user input in file path operations to prevent similar issues in future software development cycles.