CVE-2006-3528 in SimpleBoard
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Simpleboard Mambo module 1.1.0 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the sbp parameter to (1) image_upload.php and (2) file_upload.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-3528 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting the Simpleboard Mambo module version 1.1.0 and earlier. This vulnerability resides within the module's handling of user-supplied input in two specific file upload scripts, creating a pathway for attackers to inject and execute malicious PHP code on vulnerable systems. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's file upload functionality, allowing malicious actors to manipulate the sbp parameter through URL references rather than legitimate file paths.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the sbp parameter in two distinct PHP scripts: image_upload.php and file_upload.php. When these scripts process user input without proper validation, they accept URLs containing malicious PHP code and execute them within the context of the web server. This represents a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability where the application treats remote URLs as local file paths, effectively bypassing normal security controls. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-88, which specifically addresses "Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command" and aligns with CWE-94, "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" as the attack vector involves code injection through parameter manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary commands, upload additional malicious files, establish persistent backdoors, and potentially escalate privileges to gain deeper system access. The vulnerability affects web applications running the Simpleboard Mambo module, which was commonly used in content management systems and web applications during that era. Organizations running vulnerable versions face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure, as the attacker can leverage the compromised server as a foothold for further attacks.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate remediation through version updates and code modifications. The most effective approach involves upgrading to a patched version of the Simpleboard Mambo module that properly validates and sanitizes user input before processing. Additionally, implementing input validation controls that reject URLs in file upload parameters and using proper parameter sanitization techniques can prevent exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting these specific parameters. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP," demonstrating how initial access through web application exploitation leads to command execution and persistence. Network segmentation and access controls can further limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities by restricting access to vulnerable applications and implementing proper monitoring for suspicious file upload activities.