CVE-2006-3930 in a6mambohelpdesk
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in admin.a6mambohelpdesk.php in a6mambohelpdesk Mambo Component 18RC1 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_live_site parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/09/2024
The CVE-2006-3930 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw discovered in the a6mambohelpdesk Mambo component version 18RC1 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically affects the admin.a6mambohelpdesk.php file and exploits a dangerous parameter handling mechanism within the component's configuration system. The flaw resides in how the application processes the mosConfig_live_site parameter, which is designed to store the live site URL configuration but becomes a vector for malicious code execution when improperly validated.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the PHP application layer. When attackers supply a malicious URL through the mosConfig_live_site parameter, the application fails to properly validate or escape the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This creates an environment where arbitrary PHP code can be executed on the target server, effectively allowing remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources and potentially escalate their privileges. The vulnerability operates under the broader category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, which are commonly categorized under CWE-20 and CWE-94 respectively.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Once exploited, malicious actors can upload additional malware, modify existing files, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate web application but can also compromise the entire hosting environment, especially when multiple applications share the same server resources. This represents a significant risk to organizations using outdated Mambo component versions, as the vulnerability has existed since 2006 and many legacy systems may still be running vulnerable code without proper patching.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate patching of the affected component to version 18RC2 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should also implement strict input validation at the application level, particularly for all parameters that are used in file inclusion operations. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls can provide additional protection by filtering malicious requests before they reach the vulnerable application. The remediation process should include comprehensive security audits of all installed components, regular vulnerability scanning, and the implementation of secure coding practices that prevent similar issues from occurring in future development cycles. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to remote code execution and privilege escalation, making it a critical target for both preventive and detective security controls.