CVE-2006-4311 in Enterprise Adressbook
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in Sonium Enterprise Adressbook 0.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the folder parameter in multiple files in the plugins directory, as demonstrated by plugins/1_Adressbuch/delete.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2017
The CVE-2006-4311 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Sonium Enterprise Adressbook version 0.2 software. This vulnerability resides within the plugins directory structure and specifically targets the folder parameter handling in multiple php files. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system, fundamentally compromising the application's security posture and potentially providing attackers with complete control over the affected server environment. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects core application functionality through the plugin architecture, which typically handles user-supplied data without proper sanitization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the Sonium Enterprise Adressbook application. When the application processes the folder parameter in files such as plugins/1_Adressbuch/delete.php, it fails to properly validate or sanitize user-provided input before using it in file inclusion operations. This creates an environment where attackers can manipulate the parameter to include malicious PHP code from remote servers, effectively bypassing normal application security controls. The vulnerability operates under CWE-98, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP."
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to establish persistent access to the compromised system. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to upload backdoor scripts, escalate privileges, or even use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks against internal networks. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access or prior authentication to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly attractive for automated attack campaigns. The attack surface is further expanded due to the plugin architecture, which may contain multiple entry points that could be exploited in similar fashion, potentially allowing for broader system compromise than initially apparent.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement strict parameter validation for all user-supplied inputs, particularly those used in dynamic file inclusion operations. The recommended approach involves using allowlists of permitted values rather than denylists, ensuring that only known good inputs are processed by the application. Additionally, the application should be updated to a version that properly validates the folder parameter or implements proper input sanitization techniques. Security measures should include disabling remote file inclusion features entirely, implementing proper web application firewalls, and conducting comprehensive code reviews to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application. The remediation process should also involve monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns and implementing proper logging mechanisms to detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation, as well as regularly updating and patching all software components to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future versions.