CVE-2006-3530 in Pc Cookbook
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in com_pccookbook/pccookbook.php in the PccookBook Component for Mambo and Joomla 0.3 and possibly up to 1.3.1, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-3530 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the PccookBook component for Mambo and Joomla content management systems. This vulnerability specifically affects versions 0.3 through 1.3.1 and exploits a fundamental security weakness that arises when the register_globals PHP configuration setting is enabled. The flaw resides in the com_pccookbook/pccookbook.php file where the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter is improperly handled, creating an avenue for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-88, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and CWE-94, covering improper execution of code. The attack vector leverages the dangerous combination of insecure parameter handling and the permissive register_globals configuration that was common in older PHP environments.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires that the target system has register_globals enabled, which automatically converts GET, POST, and Cookie variables into global variables within the PHP script context. When an attacker crafts a malicious request containing a specially formatted mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, the vulnerable component fails to properly validate or sanitize this input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. This allows the attacker to specify arbitrary file paths that can point to remote malicious code repositories, enabling remote code execution. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes exploitation of remote services, and T1059, covering execution through command and scripting interpreters. The attack chain typically involves the attacker first identifying a vulnerable Joomla or Mambo installation, then crafting a malicious URL with the vulnerable parameter, and finally executing arbitrary code on the target system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server when successful. An attacker can execute system commands, access sensitive data, modify content, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the compromised environment. The vulnerability affects not just individual websites but entire CMS installations that use the PccookBook component, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with multiple interconnected systems. The risk is compounded by the fact that many legacy systems were still running with register_globals enabled, creating a wide attack surface. Organizations using vulnerable versions of Joomla or Mambo could face complete system compromise, data breaches, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, as the flaw could have been prevented through proper parameter sanitization and the elimination of dangerous PHP configurations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-3530 focus on immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most effective immediate fix involves disabling the register_globals directive in PHP configuration files, which eliminates the fundamental condition that enables the attack. System administrators should also upgrade to patched versions of Joomla or Mambo that contain proper input validation for the affected component, with version 1.3.2 and later releases addressing this specific vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization measures, including the use of allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives set to off, helps prevent remote file inclusion attacks. Organizations should also deploy web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious parameter injection attempts, and implement proper network segmentation to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. The vulnerability underscores the importance of regular security audits, proper patch management, and adherence to secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. Regular monitoring and vulnerability assessment programs should be implemented to identify and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited by malicious actors.