CVE-2006-4264 in Mtg Myhomepage Component
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in the lmtg_myhomepage Component (com_lmtg_myhomepage) for Mambo allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter in (1) install.lmtg_homepage.php and (2) mtg_homepage.php. NOTE: this issue has been disputed by a third party, who states that the $mosConfig_absolute_path variable is only used within a function definition. CVE source code analysis on 20060824 is not conclusive but tends to concur with the dispute. In addition, it appears that the component name is actually "lmtg_myhomepage".
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4264 represents a disputed remote file inclusion flaw within the lmtg_myhomepage component for the Mambo content management system. This issue stems from improper handling of user-supplied input in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, which could potentially allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code. The vulnerability affects two specific files within the component: install.lmtg_homepage.php and mtg_homepage.php, making them potential entry points for malicious actors seeking to compromise systems running vulnerable versions of Mambo.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. When the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter is manipulated by an attacker, it can lead to unintended code execution if the application fails to properly validate or sanitize this input before using it in file operations. The disputed nature of this vulnerability arises from the fact that the $mosConfig_absolute_path variable appears to be used within function definitions rather than directly in file inclusion contexts, suggesting the vulnerability may not exist in the manner initially described. This ambiguity complicates the assessment of the actual risk posed by the flaw.
From an operational perspective, if the vulnerability were confirmed to exist, it would present a significant security risk to Mambo installations using the affected component. Attackers could potentially leverage this flaw to upload and execute malicious PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to full system compromise. The impact would extend beyond simple code execution to include data theft, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Organizations running vulnerable systems would face increased risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches, particularly in environments where Mambo is used for critical web applications.
The disputed nature of this vulnerability, as noted in the CVE description, highlights the importance of thorough source code analysis and verification before classifying security flaws. While the initial report suggested a direct remote file inclusion vulnerability, the third-party analysis indicates that the variable in question is only used within function definitions, which would typically not result in the execution of arbitrary code. This discrepancy demonstrates the complexity involved in vulnerability assessment and the necessity for multiple verification steps. The CVE source code analysis conducted on 20060824 tended to support the dispute, indicating that the actual risk may be significantly lower than initially reported. Organizations should consider this disputed status when evaluating their risk assessment and mitigation strategies, ensuring that their security measures are based on verified vulnerabilities rather than potentially inaccurate reports.
Mitigation strategies for this disputed vulnerability should focus on implementing comprehensive input validation and sanitization practices throughout the application code. Even though the vulnerability may not be confirmed, the potential for similar issues in the component warrants careful code review and security hardening. Organizations should ensure that all user-supplied input is properly validated and sanitized before being processed by the application. This approach aligns with the principle of defense in depth and helps protect against potential exploitation of similar vulnerabilities that may exist within the same codebase. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and address any potential security weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. The component name "lmtg_myhomepage" should be verified against official documentation to ensure accurate identification of the vulnerable software and proper application of security patches or workarounds.