CVE-2006-1819 in phpWebSite
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in the loadConfig function in index.php in phpWebSite 0.10.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to include arbitrary local files and execute arbitrary PHP code via the hub_dir parameter, as demonstrated by including access_log. NOTE: in some cases, arbitrary remote file inclusion could be performed under PHP 5 using an SMB share argument such as "\\systemname\sharename".
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-1819 represents a critical directory traversal flaw in phpWebSite version 0.10.2 and earlier, specifically within the loadConfig function located in the index.php file. This weakness falls under the category of CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a fundamental security issue that allows attackers to manipulate file paths and access unauthorized resources. The vulnerability specifically affects the hub_dir parameter, which is processed without proper input validation or sanitization, creating an opportunity for attackers to traverse the file system and access arbitrary local files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the hub_dir parameter in the loadConfig function, which accepts user-supplied input without adequate security controls. When an attacker provides a malicious value for this parameter, the application performs file inclusion operations that can result in arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to include local files such as access_log, which may contain sensitive information or could be leveraged to execute malicious PHP code. This type of vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution (RCE) vulnerability under the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically mapping to T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it can enable attackers to gain complete control over the affected system. In environments where phpWebSite is deployed, an attacker could potentially access sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or other system files that could lead to further compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated attacks. The reference to potential remote file inclusion under PHP 5 using SMB shares like "\systemname\sharename" demonstrates that this vulnerability could be leveraged to perform more sophisticated attacks, including leveraging network shares to execute code on the target system.
The implications of this vulnerability align with the broader category of insecure file handling practices that have been consistently identified in web applications. Organizations using phpWebSite versions prior to the patched release would be exposed to significant risk, as this vulnerability could be exploited to establish persistent access to the affected systems. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application development. Security practitioners should note that this vulnerability represents a classic example of how insufficient parameter validation can lead to severe consequences, and it serves as a reminder of the critical importance of implementing proper access controls and input sanitization measures. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw means that it could be used to deploy backdoors, exfiltrate data, or perform other malicious activities that would be difficult to detect without proper monitoring and security controls in place.