CVE-2006-4217 in WEBInsta
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in modules/usersonline/users.php in WEBInsta CMS 0.3.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the module_dir parameter, a different vulnerability than CVE-2006-4196. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-4217 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the WEBInsta CMS version 0.3.1, specifically affecting the modules/usersonline/users.php file. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the module_dir parameter, allowing attackers to inject malicious URLs that get included and executed as PHP code. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and potentially gain full control over the affected web server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the module_dir parameter within the users.php file, which serves as an entry point for remote code execution. When an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the module_dir parameter, the vulnerable application includes this external resource without proper validation, effectively executing the attacker's code within the context of the web server. This behavior aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of how insecure parameter handling can lead to complete system compromise, as the attacker can essentially upload and execute any PHP code they choose, potentially leading to data breaches, system takeover, or further network infiltration.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to establish persistent access to the compromised system. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised server as a launching point for attacks against other systems within the network. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly attractive for automated attack campaigns. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, demonstrating how such vulnerabilities can be used to achieve initial access and maintain persistence within target environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the vendor's patch or upgrade to a version that resolves the insecure parameter handling in the users.php file. Organizations should also implement input validation measures that prevent the inclusion of external URLs in parameters that control module loading. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation can limit the damage if exploitation occurs, while regular security audits and code reviews can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices, particularly in the areas of input validation, output encoding, and secure parameter handling as recommended by industry standards and best practices.