CVE-2006-0854 in iUser Ecommerce
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in common.php in Intensive Point iUser Ecommerce allows remote attackers to include arbitrary files via a URL in the include_path variable, which is not initialized before being used.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/31/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-0854 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Intensive Point iUser Ecommerce platform's common.php script. This issue stems from improper input validation and insecure programming practices that allow attackers to manipulate the include_path variable through maliciously crafted URLs. The vulnerability specifically affects the PHP application's handling of dynamic includes, creating an avenue for arbitrary code execution and unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly initialize or sanitize the include_path variable before using it in file inclusion operations. This flaw falls under the category of CWE-98, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically relates to insecure use of dynamic includes in PHP applications. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by constructing malicious URLs that manipulate the include_path parameter, enabling them to load and execute remote files from attacker-controlled servers. The lack of proper input validation and sanitization creates a direct path for remote code execution, potentially allowing full system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code injection, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary commands on the affected server. This could lead to complete system compromise, data theft, privilege escalation, and potential use as a foothold for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the entire iUser Ecommerce platform and could impact multiple users and systems depending on how the application is deployed and configured. Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability represents a classic example of how insecure file inclusion practices can create persistent security risks in web applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected application components, implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all dynamic include operations, and configuring web servers to prevent remote file inclusion attacks. Organizations should also implement network segmentation, monitor for suspicious file inclusion patterns, and conduct thorough security assessments of all PHP applications to identify similar vulnerabilities. The remediation process must include proper initialization of all variables before use, implementation of whitelisting mechanisms for file inclusion paths, and adherence to secure coding practices that prevent dynamic code execution based on user input. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding standards and implementing proper input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.