CVE-2006-2768 in METAjour
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in METAjour 2.1, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the (1) system_path parameter in a large number of files in the (a) app/edocument/, (b) app/eproject/, (c) app/erek/, and (d) extension/ directories, and the (2) GLOBALS[system_path] parameter in (e) extension/sitemap/sitemap.datatype.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2024
This vulnerability exists in METAjour 2.1, a web application that suffers from a critical remote file inclusion flaw when the PHP register_globals directive is enabled. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and parameter handling within the application's core functionality, specifically affecting multiple directory structures including app/edocument/, app/eproject/, app/erek/, and extension/ directories. The flaw manifests through two primary attack vectors that leverage the system_path parameter, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code into the application's execution flow. The vulnerability's exploitation becomes possible due to the dangerous combination of register_globals being enabled and the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability operates through a classic remote file inclusion attack pattern where the system_path parameter is directly incorporated into PHP include or require statements without adequate validation or sanitization. When register_globals is enabled, the application treats user-supplied GET or POST parameters as global variables, creating a dangerous condition where attacker-controlled data can be seamlessly integrated into the application's code execution path. The attack vector specifically targets the GLOBALS[system_path] parameter within the extension/sitemap/sitemap.datatype.php file, which represents a particularly insidious entry point since it operates within the application's extension framework where privilege levels may be elevated. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code, both of which are fundamental to the exploitation mechanism.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server's application layer. Successful exploitation can lead to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms that allow attackers to maintain access over extended periods. The vulnerability affects a wide range of application files across multiple directory structures, amplifying its potential impact and making comprehensive remediation more complex. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, execute arbitrary commands, and potentially escalate privileges within the application's security context. The risk is particularly severe in environments where register_globals remains enabled, as this configuration is considered a major security misconfiguration and is strongly discouraged in modern PHP deployments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate exploitation vectors and the underlying architectural issues that make such attacks possible. The primary recommendation involves disabling register_globals in the PHP configuration, which immediately eliminates one of the core conditions necessary for exploitation. Additionally, input validation and sanitization must be implemented throughout the application's parameter handling mechanisms, particularly in the directories mentioned in the vulnerability description. The application code should be modified to use explicit variable assignment rather than relying on global variable behavior, and all user-supplied input should be rigorously validated against a whitelist of acceptable values. Security controls should also include implementing proper access controls and input filtering mechanisms that prevent inclusion of external files through parameter manipulation. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices and adheres to ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services, and T1059, which covers execution through command and scripting interpreters. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls and regular security assessments to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities in other components of their web infrastructure.