CVE-2006-4075 in docpile:we
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Wim Fleischhauer docpile: wim's edition (docpile:we) 0.2.2 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the INIT_PATH parameter to (1) lib/folder.class.php, (2) lib/email.inc.php, (3) lib/document.class.php or (4) lib/auth.inc.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2024
The CVE-2006-4075 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting Wim Fleischhauer docpile: wim's edition version 0.2.2 and earlier. This vulnerability resides within a document management system that suffers from improper input validation mechanisms, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the application's parameter processing. The flaw specifically targets the INIT_PATH parameter which is utilized across multiple core library files including folder.class.php, email.inc.php, document.class.php, and auth.inc.php, making the attack surface particularly broad and impactful. The vulnerability type aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. This weakness falls under the broader category of CWE-94, representing improper execution of code, where unvalidated user input is directly incorporated into the application's execution flow.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the INIT_PATH parameter to point to a remote malicious PHP script hosted on an external server. When the vulnerable application processes this parameter, it includes and executes the remote file, effectively allowing the attacker to inject arbitrary PHP code into the target system. This mechanism bypasses normal access controls and authentication mechanisms, as the remote inclusion occurs during the application's normal processing flow. The attack vector operates through HTTP requests that pass the malicious URL as a parameter, and the vulnerability exists because the application fails to validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without authentication and can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack techniques.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-4075 is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process. This can result in complete system compromise, data theft, and the establishment of persistent backdoors within the affected infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the core authentication and document management functionalities, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive documents and user data. Given that this vulnerability affects multiple library files, a successful exploitation can impact various application features including email functionality, document handling, and user authentication processes. The attack can be performed remotely without requiring any special privileges or prior access to the system, making it particularly attractive to automated attack tools. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through PHP and T1190 for exploitation of remote services, representing a significant threat to web application security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4075 should focus on immediate patching and input validation implementation. Organizations should upgrade to a patched version of docpile: wim's edition that addresses this vulnerability, as no official patches were provided for the affected versions. The recommended approach involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Applications should utilize whitelisting mechanisms for parameter values or implement proper URL validation to prevent inclusion of external resources. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring web server processes run with minimal required permissions and that the application's file inclusion mechanisms are properly secured. Network-level mitigations such as web application firewalls can provide additional protection by filtering suspicious requests containing malicious URLs. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, aligning with security standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for preventing injection vulnerabilities in web applications.