CVE-2006-3947 in mambatstaff
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in components/com_mambatstaff/mambatstaff.php in the Mambatstaff 3.1b and earlier component for Mambo allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-3947 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Mambatstaff component version 3.1b and earlier for the Mambo content management system. This vulnerability resides in the file components/com_mambatstaff/mambatstaff.php and specifically targets the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter which is susceptible to manipulation by remote attackers. The flaw enables unauthorized execution of arbitrary PHP code on the target server, fundamentally compromising the system's integrity and security posture.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, known as "Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command" and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')." The attack vector exploits the lack of proper input validation and sanitization within the parameter handling mechanism. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL through the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize this input before incorporating it into the execution context, thereby allowing the inclusion of remote files containing malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the vulnerable server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify website content, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the entire web application stack since it allows code execution at the server level, bypassing typical web application security controls. Additionally, the vulnerability impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, making it a critical concern for any organization relying on the vulnerable component.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 category "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell." The vulnerability demonstrates how insecure parameter handling in web applications can create pathways for attackers to escalate privileges and gain unauthorized access to system resources. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including patching the vulnerable component to version 3.2 or later, implementing input validation controls, and restricting file inclusion capabilities. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection, while regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of following secure coding practices and input validation techniques as outlined in OWASP Top Ten and other industry security standards to prevent similar issues in future development cycles.