CVE-2006-2149 in Aardvark Topsites PHP
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in sources/lostpw.php in Aardvark Topsites PHP 4.2.2 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the CONFIG[path] parameter, as demonstrated by including a GIF that contains PHP code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-2149 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in Aardvark Topsites PHP version 4.2.2 and earlier systems. This security weakness specifically targets the sources/lostpw.php script where the application fails to properly validate user-supplied input parameters. The vulnerability occurs when the register_globals PHP configuration setting is enabled, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The attack vector leverages the CONFIG[path] parameter which is directly incorporated into the application's file inclusion mechanism without adequate sanitization or validation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command. In this case, the malicious input is processed through the PHP include mechanism rather than command execution, but the underlying principle remains similar - untrusted data is directly used in file operations. Attackers can craft a malicious GIF file containing PHP code and reference it through the vulnerable CONFIG[path] parameter, effectively bypassing normal file access controls and executing arbitrary code within the context of the web server. This technique demonstrates the classic remote file inclusion vulnerability pattern where the application's trust in user input leads to unauthorized code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching within the affected systems. Successful exploitation provides attackers with complete control over the compromised web server, enabling them to execute commands, access sensitive data, modify application functionality, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects not just individual web applications but entire server infrastructures, as the compromised application can serve as a launching point for broader attacks against internal networks. The use of GIF files as attack vectors demonstrates the sophisticated nature of modern exploitation techniques where seemingly benign file types are weaponized to bypass security controls. This vulnerability also highlights the dangerous combination of legacy software with insecure configuration settings, as register_globals was deprecated due to its security implications in PHP versions 4.2.0 and later.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The most effective immediate fix involves disabling the register_globals configuration setting in PHP, which removes the exploitable condition entirely. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms around all user-supplied parameters prevents the exploitation of similar vulnerabilities. The application should employ explicit file path validation and avoid direct inclusion of user-controllable variables. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms that can detect and block malicious file inclusion attempts. This vulnerability serves as a prime example of why adherence to secure coding practices and regular security updates is essential, as demonstrated by the ATT&CK framework's emphasis on command and control techniques through web application exploitation. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of proper configuration management and the dangers of running outdated software versions that contain known security flaws.