CVE-2006-4287 in phpHtmlLib
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in NES Game and NES System c108122 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) phphtmllib parameter to (a) phphtmllib/includes.php; tag_utils/ scripts including (b) divtag_utils.php, (c) form_utils.php, (d) html_utils.php, and (e) localinc.php; and widgets/ scripts including (f) FooterNav.php, (g) HTMLPageClass.php, (h) InfoTable.php, (i) localinc.php, (j) NavTable.php, and (k) TextNav.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2024
The CVE-2006-4287 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting NES Game and NES System versions c108122 and earlier. This vulnerability resides within the phphtmllib component of the affected software, where multiple scripts accept user-supplied URLs through various parameters, creating a pathway for remote code execution. The vulnerability specifically targets the phphtmllib parameter in several core include files, making it particularly dangerous as it affects fundamental system components that handle HTML rendering and utility functions. The affected scripts span across multiple directories including tag_utils, widgets, and localinc components, indicating a widespread issue within the software architecture. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-88 category, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, though in this case the vector is PHP include operations rather than OS commands. The vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage.
The technical flaw in CVE-2006-4287 stems from the improper validation of user input within the include mechanism of the affected PHP scripts. When the application processes user-provided URLs through the phphtmllib parameter, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before using it in include or require statements. This allows attackers to inject malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting malicious PHP code. The vulnerability is particularly severe because it affects multiple script files simultaneously, providing attackers with numerous potential entry points. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially full system compromise, as the included code runs with the privileges of the web server process. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload and execute backdoors, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal prerequisites and can be automated, making it attractive to both skilled and less experienced attackers.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-4287 is substantial for organizations running affected versions of NES Game and NES System software. Remote attackers can execute arbitrary code without authentication, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data breaches. The vulnerability affects critical system components that handle HTML rendering, form processing, and navigation utilities, meaning that successful exploitation could disrupt core application functionality while simultaneously providing attacker access. Organizations may experience unauthorized data access, system integrity compromise, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability also poses risks to application availability, as attackers could potentially disrupt services by injecting malicious code that causes system instability. Given the age of this vulnerability and the widespread use of affected software, many organizations may have legacy systems still running vulnerable versions, creating ongoing security risks that require immediate attention.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4287 should prioritize immediate software updates and patches from the vendor, as the affected versions are outdated and no longer supported. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent user-supplied URLs from being processed in include statements. Web application firewalls can provide additional protection by filtering suspicious URL patterns and blocking attempts to include remote resources. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running web applications with minimal required permissions and implementing proper access controls. Network segmentation and monitoring should be deployed to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other potentially affected components within their environment. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, particularly in applications that process user-supplied data for inclusion operations. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other software components. Organizations should also implement proper patch management processes to ensure timely updates of all software components and maintain awareness of known vulnerabilities in their systems.