CVE-2006-4241 in reporter
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in processor/reporter.sql.php in the Reporter Mambo component (com_reporter) 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 • 08/02/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4241 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Reporter Mambo component version 0.3.2 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the processor/reporter.sql.php file where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input. The specific parameter mosConfig_absolute_path becomes a vector for exploitation when attackers can manipulate its value to include malicious remote URLs. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an SQL command, though the broader implications extend to remote code execution through file inclusion mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter to the vulnerable script. The application then processes this input without adequate validation, effectively including and executing the remote PHP code on the target server. This behavior demonstrates a fundamental flaw in input sanitization and parameter handling that allows attackers to bypass normal application boundaries and execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables full remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain complete control over the affected system.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a severe risk to systems running vulnerable versions of the Mambo content management system. Attackers can leverage this flaw to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Organizations using the Reporter Mambo component in production environments face significant exposure to attackers who can exploit this vulnerability without requiring authentication or local access, making it a particularly attractive target for automated exploitation campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4241 should focus on immediate patching of the affected component to the latest available version that contains the necessary input validation fixes. System administrators should also implement proper input sanitization measures, including disabling remote file inclusion functionality in PHP configurations and using allow_url_include = Off in php.ini files. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth by monitoring for suspicious URL patterns and parameter manipulation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage, making it a critical target for both preventive and detective security controls. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other components and ensure comprehensive protection against remote code execution threats.