CVE-2006-4130 in Remository For Mambo
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in admin.remository.php in the Remository Component (com_remository) 3.25 and earlier for Mambo and Joomla!, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2021
The CVE-2006-4130 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw discovered in the Remository Component version 3.25 and earlier for Mambo and Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the admin.remository.php file and exploits a dangerous configuration weakness that exists when register_globals is enabled on the web server. The flaw operates by allowing remote attackers to inject malicious URLs through the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, which then gets processed by the vulnerable application. This particular vulnerability falls under the CWE-88 category of Command Injection and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, demonstrating how improperly sanitized input parameters can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation mechanism relies on the dangerous behavior of register_globals, a PHP configuration setting that automatically creates global variables from request parameters. When enabled, this setting transforms URL parameters into accessible global variables without proper sanitization, creating a direct pathway for attackers to manipulate application behavior. In this case, the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter becomes a vector for injecting malicious file paths that the application then attempts to include and execute. The vulnerability is particularly severe because it allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the installation of backdoors.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations using affected versions of Mambo or Joomla! platforms. The remote execution capability means attackers can exploit this flaw from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or authentication. Successful exploitation could result in complete server compromise, unauthorized data access, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects not just individual websites but entire content management systems that rely on the Remository component, making it a widespread concern for web application security. Organizations with vulnerable installations face potential regulatory compliance violations and reputational damage if exploited.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4130 should focus on immediate remediation and configuration hardening. The primary recommendation is to disable the register_globals directive in PHP configuration files, which eliminates the core vulnerability condition. Additionally, all affected systems should be updated to newer versions of the Remository component that contain proper input validation and sanitization. Implementing proper parameter validation, using secure coding practices, and employing web application firewalls can provide additional defense layers. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potential remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in their web applications. The ATT&CK framework suggests implementing network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns as part of a comprehensive security posture. Regular security updates, proper input validation, and adherence to secure coding standards are essential practices that prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in future applications.