CVE-2006-4053 in ME Download System
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in templates/header.php in ME Download System 1.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the Vb8878b936c2bd8ae0cab parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4053 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the ME Download System version 1.3, specifically affecting the templates/header.php component. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to adequately restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. The flaw manifests when the application processes the Vb8878b936c2bd8ae0cab parameter without sufficient validation, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that are subsequently executed within the application context.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a classic remote file inclusion attack vector where an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the vulnerable parameter. When the ME Download System processes this input, it performs a file inclusion operation that retrieves and executes the remote PHP code, effectively granting the attacker complete control over the affected system. This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which encompasses execution of arbitrary code. The attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, known as "Exploit Public-Facing Application," where adversaries target web applications to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a complete backdoor into the system. Once exploited, the attacker can manipulate the application's behavior, access sensitive data, modify system configurations, and potentially establish persistent access. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire download system, as any data processed through the affected component becomes susceptible to manipulation. Additionally, the attack can be amplified through various vectors including web application firewalls bypass techniques and social engineering methods that encourage users to click malicious links.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term prevention measures. The primary fix involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The application should employ whitelisting mechanisms that only permit specific, known-safe values while rejecting all other inputs. Security patches should be applied immediately to upgrade to a version that resolves this vulnerability, as the flaw exists in the core application logic and cannot be effectively mitigated through network-level controls alone. Organizations should also implement proper parameter validation in all web applications, utilize secure coding practices, and conduct regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection, though these should not be relied upon as the sole defense mechanism against such critical flaws.