CVE-2006-2996 in aePartner
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in inc/design.inc.php in LoveCompass aePartner 0.8.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the dir[data] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-2996 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the LoveCompass aePartner content management system version 0.8.3 and earlier. This vulnerability resides within the inc/design.inc.php file and demonstrates a classic security misconfiguration that allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The flaw specifically occurs when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input passed through the dir[data] parameter, creating an avenue for remote code execution attacks that can compromise the entire web server infrastructure.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression context, and more specifically CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The flaw operates by accepting a URL value through the dir[data] parameter and subsequently including that URL as a PHP file without proper validation. This creates an environment where an attacker can craft malicious URLs that, when processed by the vulnerable application, execute arbitrary PHP code on the server. The vulnerability essentially allows attackers to bypass normal access controls and directly manipulate the application's execution flow through carefully crafted input parameters.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations using the affected software. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor access. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access or prior authentication to exploit this vulnerability. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload malicious files, establish reverse shells, or perform other malicious activities that can result in prolonged unauthorized access to the compromised infrastructure. The vulnerability affects not just the specific application but can potentially provide attackers with a foothold for broader network infiltration.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-2996 primarily focus on input validation and proper parameter sanitization. Organizations should immediately upgrade to a patched version of LoveCompass aePartner if available, as this vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent releases. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization techniques can prevent similar issues in other applications. The use of secure coding practices such as whitelisting acceptable input values, implementing proper parameter validation, and avoiding dynamic file inclusion based on user input are essential defensive measures. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the need for proper application hardening and regular security assessments to identify and remediate such critical flaws before they can be exploited by malicious actors in the wild.