CVE-2006-3986 in Newsletter
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in Knusperleicht Newsletter 3.5 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the NL_PATH parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-3986 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Knusperleicht Newsletter version 3.5 and earlier systems. This security weakness exists within the index.php script where user input is improperly handled, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability specifically manifests through the NL_PATH parameter which is susceptible to manipulation by remote attackers seeking to exploit the system's lack of proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms.
This vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-98, which describes improper input validation leading to remote file inclusion attacks. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations. When an attacker provides a malicious URL through the NL_PATH parameter, the application processes this input without adequate security checks, allowing the execution of remote code on the vulnerable system. The attack vector exploits the trust placed in user input and demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the application's security architecture where external data is directly incorporated into server-side file operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to gain complete control over the affected server. Successful exploitation enables remote code execution, which can lead to data theft, system compromise, and further lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive information, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for attacking other systems. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, as it provides unauthorized access to critical server functions and data processing capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms throughout the application. The most effective approach involves removing or disabling the vulnerable file inclusion functionality that accepts external URLs, or implementing strict input validation that rejects any non-local file paths. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege, ensuring that web applications run with minimal required permissions and that proper access controls are in place. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique T1059.007 for remote code execution and T1566 for initial access through web application attacks. The remediation process should include updating to the latest version of the Knusperleicht Newsletter software, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting comprehensive security testing to ensure that similar vulnerabilities are not present in other components of the system.