CVE-2006-4213 in Thatware
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in config.php in David Kent Norman Thatware 0.4.6 and possibly earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4213 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the David Kent Norman Thatware content management system version 0.4.6 and potentially earlier releases. This vulnerability resides within the config.php file which serves as a central configuration module for the application. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. The root_path parameter specifically accepts external URLs without adequate verification, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to inject malicious file paths.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which covers improper execution of code. The vulnerability operates through a classic remote file inclusion attack vector where an attacker can manipulate the root_path parameter to reference external malicious files hosted on remote servers. When the application processes this parameter through include or require statements, it executes the malicious PHP code contained within the remote file, effectively granting the attacker remote code execution capabilities on the vulnerable system. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in remote services and T1059 for executing commands through interpreted languages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Successful exploitation enables adversaries to execute arbitrary commands, upload additional malware, establish persistent backdoors, and potentially escalate privileges within the compromised environment. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate system but can also serve as a stepping stone for further attacks within a network infrastructure. Organizations running affected versions of Thatware face significant risks including data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can leverage this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4213 should focus on immediate remediation and long-term defensive measures. The primary and most effective solution involves upgrading to a patched version of the Thatware application where input validation has been properly implemented. Administrators should disable remote file inclusion functionality by configuring PHP settings to restrict file inclusion from remote sources. The application code should be reviewed to implement proper input sanitization, using functions like filter_var() with appropriate filters, and to employ allowlists rather than denylists for parameter validation. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and principle of least privilege should be enforced to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, while regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and systems.