CVE-2006-4055 in TSEP
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Olaf Noehring The Search Engine Project (TSEP) 0.942 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the tsep_config[absPath] parameter to (1) include/colorswitch.php, (2) contentimages.class.php, (3) ipfunctions.php, (4) configfunctions.php, (5) printpagedetails.php, or (6) log.class.php. NOTE: the copyright.php vector is already covered by CVE-2006-3993.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4055 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Search Engine Project (TSEP) version 0.942 and earlier, affecting multiple PHP script files that process user-supplied input without proper validation. This vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and specifically aligns with CWE-94, which encompasses the execution of arbitrary code due to inadequate input sanitization. The affected components include several core PHP files such as colorswitch.php, contentimages.class.php, ipfunctions.php, configfunctions.php, printpagedetails.php, and log.class.php, each of which accepts the tsep_config[absPath] parameter that can be manipulated by remote attackers to inject malicious URLs.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the tsep_config[absPath] parameter before using it in include or require statements. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL in this parameter, the application will attempt to fetch and execute the remote code as if it were a local file, effectively allowing arbitrary code execution on the vulnerable system. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector operates through the standard PHP include functionality, where user input is directly incorporated into the file inclusion mechanism without proper sanitization, creating a direct path for malicious code injection.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-4055 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code remotely without authentication. This vulnerability can be exploited to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised server for further attacks against other systems. The affected TSEP application, being a search engine component, could be leveraged to host malicious content or serve as a pivot point for attacking other networked systems. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple files increases the attack surface and makes complete remediation more complex, as each vulnerable file must be addressed individually. Additionally, the lack of proper input validation creates a consistent attack pattern that can be easily automated, making this vulnerability particularly attractive to automated exploit tools and malicious actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4055 should focus on implementing strict input validation and sanitization practices throughout the application code. The primary defense mechanism involves disabling remote file inclusion capabilities by setting the allow_url_include directive to off in php.ini configuration files, preventing the application from fetching files from remote locations. Additionally, developers should implement proper parameter validation using whitelisting techniques, where only predefined safe values are accepted for the tsep_config[absPath] parameter. The application should also employ absolute path validation to ensure that any file inclusion operations only reference expected local paths. Security measures should include input sanitization using functions like escapeshellcmd() or similar validation routines, and implementing proper error handling that does not expose internal system information. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious requests containing potentially malicious URLs in the affected parameters, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's techniques for command and control through remote access tools and execution of malicious code. Regular security updates and code reviews should be conducted to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future versions of the application.