CVE-2006-4112 in Ruby on Rails
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in the "dependency resolution mechanism" in Ruby on Rails 1.1.0 through 1.1.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary Ruby code via a URL that is not properly handled in the routing code, which leads to a denial of service (application hang) or "data loss," a different vulnerability than CVE-2006-4111.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4112 represents a critical security flaw within the Ruby on Rails framework version 1.1.0 through 1.1.5 that affects the dependency resolution mechanism. This issue arises from improper handling of URLs within the routing code, creating a pathway for remote attackers to exploit the system. The vulnerability operates through the framework's routing subsystem where URL parsing and dependency resolution intersect, allowing malicious actors to craft specific requests that can manipulate the application's execution flow. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of insufficient input validation and sanitization in web application frameworks, where malformed URL structures can trigger unexpected behavior in the underlying code execution environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from how Ruby on Rails processes incoming HTTP requests and maps them to application controllers and actions. When a specially crafted URL is processed through the routing mechanism, the dependency resolution component fails to properly validate or sanitize the input parameters. This failure creates a condition where attacker-controlled data can influence the application's internal state and execution path. The vulnerability specifically targets the routing code's handling of URL components that are subsequently used in dependency resolution processes, allowing for arbitrary code execution. The flaw aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and demonstrates how routing vulnerabilities can escalate to full code execution capabilities within web applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-4112 extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios to include potential data loss and unauthorized code execution. When exploited, the vulnerability can cause applications to hang or become unresponsive, effectively creating a denial of service condition that disrupts legitimate user access. More critically, the vulnerability enables remote code execution, allowing attackers to run arbitrary Ruby code on the affected server. This capability can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and further lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability's classification as a remote attack vector means that exploitation can occur without requiring any local access or authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1059.007 for application execution and T1499.004 for network denial of service. The attack chain typically involves crafting malicious URLs that exploit the routing code's improper handling of dependency resolution. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability represents a significant risk to Ruby on Rails applications and requires immediate attention. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the widespread adoption of Ruby on Rails in web applications, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools. Organizations running affected versions of Ruby on Rails should prioritize patching or implementing compensating controls to prevent exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4112 involve immediate upgrades to Ruby on Rails version 1.1.6 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the routing and dependency resolution flaws. Additionally, organizations should implement web application firewalls and input validation controls to monitor and filter suspicious URL patterns. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect unusual traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in web frameworks, particularly around URL parsing and routing mechanisms. Regular security assessments and code reviews focusing on dependency resolution processes can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime application self-protection mechanisms that can detect and prevent exploitation attempts in real-time.