CVE-2006-4286 in Mambo
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in contentpublisher.php in the contentpublisher component (com_contentpublisher) for Mambo allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter. NOTE: this issue has been disputed by third parties who state that contentpublisher.php protects against direct request in the most recent version. The original researcher is known to be frequently inaccurate.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-4286 relates to a remote file inclusion flaw within the contentpublisher component of Mambo, specifically in the contentpublisher.php script. This represents a critical security weakness that could potentially allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, which accepts user-supplied URLs without adequate sanitization. When an attacker crafts a malicious request containing a URL in this parameter, the application fails to properly validate or escape the input before using it in file inclusion operations.
This type of vulnerability falls under the category of remote code execution through file inclusion attacks, which are categorized as CWE-88 and CWE-94 within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The attack vector specifically aligns with CWE-434, which deals with unrestricted file upload or download, and CWE-73, which addresses external control of file name or path. The operational impact of such a vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or further lateral movement within network infrastructure.
The technical flaw manifests when the application processes user input through the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, which is then used in a file inclusion context. This creates an environment where attacker-controlled URLs can be interpreted and executed as PHP code, bypassing normal security controls. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it operates at the application level, requiring no special privileges or local access to exploit. The original researcher's claims regarding this vulnerability have been disputed by third parties who assert that the most recent version of contentpublisher.php includes protections against direct requests, suggesting that the vulnerability may have been addressed in updated releases.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability represents a significant risk to organizations using Mambo CMS platforms, particularly those running older versions where the security patch has not been applied. The attack requires minimal skill to execute and can be automated, making it attractive to threat actors. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential data breaches, system compromise, and service disruption. Organizations should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under the techniques related to command and control, execution, and privilege escalation. The vulnerability's disputed nature highlights the importance of validating security claims through independent verification and maintaining up-to-date software versions to mitigate known risks.
The recommended mitigations for this vulnerability include immediate patching of affected Mambo installations, implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, and applying web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious file inclusion attempts. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify other potential remote file inclusion vulnerabilities within their web applications. Regular security updates and vulnerability management processes are essential to prevent exploitation of known weaknesses. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and monitoring mechanisms can help detect unauthorized attempts to exploit such vulnerabilities in real-time.