CVE-2006-4050 in phpAutoMembersArea
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in auto_check_renewals.php in phpAutoMembersArea (phpAMA) 3.2.4 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the installed_config_file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4050 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in phpAutoMembersArea version 3.2.4 and earlier. This vulnerability exists within the auto_check_renewals.php script which fails to properly validate or sanitize user input parameters. The specific issue occurs when the installed_config_file parameter is passed to the script, allowing attackers to inject malicious URLs that can be executed on the target server. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, both of which are commonly referenced in CWE catalog as CWE-20 and CWE-94 respectively.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected server by manipulating the installed_config_file parameter through a URL. When the application processes this parameter without adequate sanitization, it can be tricked into including and executing external PHP files hosted on remote servers. This creates a pathway for attackers to inject malicious code, potentially leading to complete server compromise, data theft, or unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability specifically targets the include or require functions in PHP where user-supplied input is directly concatenated into file paths without proper validation.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using phpAutoMembersArea versions 3.2.4 or earlier. The remote execution capability means that attackers can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or authentication. Successful exploitation could result in full system compromise, allowing attackers to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised server for further attacks against other systems. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations that could affect regulatory adherence and business operations.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the phpAutoMembersArea application to version 3.2.5 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of a whitelist approach for file parameters and the removal of dynamic file inclusion based on user input are essential defensive measures. Additionally, network-based protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, highlighting the need for comprehensive defensive strategies including network segmentation, access controls, and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation attempts.