CVE-2006-4234 in dotProject
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in classes/query.class.php in dotProject 2.0.4 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the baseDir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4234 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the dotProject 2.0.4 web application framework that exposes organizations to arbitrary code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically affects the classes/query.class.php file within the application's codebase, where insufficient input validation allows malicious actors to inject external URLs into the baseDir parameter. The flaw resides in the application's improper handling of user-supplied input that should be strictly validated and sanitized before being processed. When an attacker crafts a malicious request containing a URL in the baseDir parameter, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize this input, allowing the remote file inclusion to occur.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of argument delimiters in a command or query, and more specifically with CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The flaw operates through a classic remote code execution vector where the application's insecure parameter handling enables attackers to reference external resources that can contain malicious PHP code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this weakness to upload and execute malicious scripts, gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors within the affected environment.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations utilizing dotProject 2.0.4 or earlier versions, as it enables attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and directly execute code on the web server. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to include potential data breaches, system infiltration, and complete loss of control over affected systems. According to ATT&CK framework category T1190, this vulnerability maps to the exploitation of remote services through insecure input handling, while T1059 covers the execution of malicious code through command injection. The attack surface is particularly wide as the vulnerability affects the core application functionality, making it difficult to remediate without proper input validation mechanisms in place. Organizations running affected versions face significant exposure to automated exploitation attempts, as this type of vulnerability is commonly targeted by exploit kits and automated scanning tools.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4234 must focus on immediate patching of the affected dotProject versions, with the implementation of proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should implement strict parameter validation that prevents URL schemes from being accepted in the baseDir parameter, while also configuring web server restrictions to prevent remote file inclusion. The recommended approach includes disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration, implementing proper input sanitization routines, and conducting comprehensive security reviews of all application parameters. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be deployed to monitor for exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for web application accounts and establish regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other application components. The vulnerability serves as a critical reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks.