CVE-2006-2863 in CS-Cart
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in class.cs_phpmailer.php in CS-Cart 1.3.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the classes_dir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-2863 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in CS-Cart version 1.3.3, specifically within the class.cs_phpmailer.php file. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. The affected parameter, classes_dir, accepts URL values that are subsequently processed by PHP's include or require functions without adequate security controls, creating an avenue for malicious exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code due to inadequate input validation. Attackers can exploit this flaw by crafting malicious URLs and injecting them through the classes_dir parameter, enabling the remote execution of arbitrary PHP code on the vulnerable server. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1190, known as "Exploit Public-Facing Application," where adversaries target web applications to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious commands.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the CS-Cart e-commerce platform, potentially exposing customer data, payment information, and business-critical resources.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the affected CS-Cart version to the latest available security updates from the vendor. Additionally, implementing input validation and sanitization measures that prevent URL inclusion in the classes_dir parameter is essential. Organizations should also deploy web application firewalls to monitor and filter malicious requests, disable remote file inclusion features in PHP configurations, and implement proper access controls and network segmentation to limit potential attack surface. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other applications and dependencies within the system environment.