CVE-2006-4063 in SAPID Blog Beta 2
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Csaba Godor SAPID Blog Beta 2 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) root_path parameter to (a) usr/extensions/get_blog_infochannel.inc.php, (b) usr/extensions/get_blog_meta_info.inc.php, or (c) usr/extensions/get_infochannel.inc.php; or the (2) GLOBALS[root_path] parameter to (d) usr/extensions/get_tree.inc.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4063 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting the Csaba Godor SAPID Blog Beta 2 and earlier versions. This security weakness stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the application's extension handling mechanisms. The vulnerability manifests through multiple attack vectors that allow malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code execution by manipulating specific parameters in the application's URL structure. The affected files include usr/extensions/get_blog_infochannel.inc.php, usr/extensions/get_blog_meta_info.inc.php, usr/extensions/get_infochannel.inc.php, and usr/extensions/get_tree.inc.php, each presenting distinct pathways for exploitation.
The technical flaw resides in the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input parameters before incorporating them into file inclusion operations. When the root_path parameter or GLOBALS[root_path] parameter is passed to these vulnerable files, the application directly uses the provided input to construct file paths without adequate sanitization measures. This creates an environment where remote attackers can manipulate the input to reference malicious remote files, effectively bypassing local file access controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in os command injection attacks, and CWE-22, covering improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The exploitation process typically involves crafting malicious URLs that point to attacker-controlled remote servers hosting malicious PHP payloads.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete remote code execution capabilities on the affected web server. Successful exploitation allows unauthorized individuals to execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor access. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the SAPID Blog application, rendering it vulnerable to various attack vectors including web shell deployment, privilege escalation, and lateral movement within the compromised network. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 (Exploit Public-Facing Application) and T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) techniques, as it enables attackers to leverage the application's legitimate functionality to execute malicious code. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that exploitation can occur from any location with internet access, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4063 should focus on immediate patching of the affected application to the latest available version that addresses the input validation flaws. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization measures, particularly for parameters that are used in file inclusion operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that the web application runs with minimal necessary permissions and that file inclusion operations are restricted to predefined, trusted directories. Additionally, network-level controls such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and blocking suspicious file inclusion patterns. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications, as this type of flaw often appears in legacy systems that lack modern security controls. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and the necessity of validating all user inputs before using them in dynamic operations.