CVE-2006-2137 in OpenPHPNuke
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in master.php in OpenPHPNuke and 2.3.3 earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-2137 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting OpenPHPNuke versions prior to 2.3.3. This vulnerability resides within the master.php script and demonstrates a classic path traversal attack vector that enables malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems. The flaw specifically manifests when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input passed through the root_path parameter, creating an opportunity for remote code execution through crafted URL references.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation mechanisms within the OpenPHPNuke application framework. When the root_path parameter is processed without adequate sanitization, attackers can manipulate the input to reference external URLs containing malicious PHP code. This occurs because the application's include or require statements directly incorporate user-provided paths without proper verification, allowing attackers to inject URLs that point to remote servers hosting malicious payloads. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in os command injection attacks, though in this case the injection occurs through file inclusion rather than command execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Once exploited, adversaries can execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive data, modify system files, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring local system access or prior authentication. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote services to gain initial access, and T1059, covering the execution of commands through various interfaces including PHP scripts. The implications are particularly severe for web applications that process user input through include statements, as the vulnerability can be leveraged to compromise entire web servers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-2137 primarily focus on immediate patching and input validation enhancements. Organizations should upgrade to OpenPHPNuke version 2.3.3 or later, which includes proper input sanitization measures. Additionally, implementing strict input validation on all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in include or require statements, can prevent exploitation. Security measures should include disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in PHP configurations, implementing proper parameter validation, and using allowlists for acceptable input values. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth, while regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components. The vulnerability serves as a prime example of why secure coding practices, particularly around input validation and file inclusion mechanisms, are critical in preventing remote code execution attacks.