CVE-2006-4198 in Wheatblog
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/session.php in Wheatblog (wB) 1.1 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the wb_class_dir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-4198 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Wheatblog content management system version 1.1 and earlier. This vulnerability specifically targets the session.php file located in the includes directory of the application. The flaw manifests when the PHP configuration parameter register_globals is enabled, creating a dangerous condition that allows remote attackers to inject malicious code through the wb_class_dir parameter. The vulnerability operates under CWE-88, which classifies it as a command injection weakness, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote file inclusion vulnerabilities.
The technical mechanism of this vulnerability exploits the insecure handling of user-supplied input within the Wheatblog application's session management system. When register_globals is enabled, PHP automatically creates global variables from GET, POST, and cookie data, effectively merging user input directly into the application's global namespace. Attackers can manipulate the wb_class_dir parameter to point to malicious remote URLs, causing the application to include and execute arbitrary PHP code from external sources. This occurs because the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the wb_class_dir parameter before using it in file inclusion operations, creating a direct path for code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once successfully exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary commands on the web server, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects all versions of Wheatblog up to and including version 1.1, making it particularly dangerous as many installations may have remained unpatched for extended periods. The presence of this vulnerability in a widely used CMS system creates a significant risk for organizations relying on Wheatblog for their web presence.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening. The primary and most effective mitigation involves disabling the register_globals directive in the PHP configuration, which eliminates the underlying condition that enables this attack. Additionally, all Wheatblog installations should be upgraded to versions 1.2 or later, which contain proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Security measures should also include implementing proper parameter validation, using allow_url_include directives set to off, and employing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Organizations should conduct regular security audits to identify and remediate similar insecure coding practices that could lead to remote code execution vulnerabilities.