CVE-2006-4320 in OpenSEF
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in sef.php in the OpenSEF 2.0.0 component for Joomla! 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 • 03/17/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4320 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the OpenSEF 2.0.0 component for Joomla component architecture, specifically targeting the way the application processes absolute path references during URL generation and redirection operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter to include a malicious URL pointing to external PHP code hosted on a remote server. When the vulnerable sef.php script processes this parameter, it fails to sanitize or validate the input before using it in file inclusion operations, allowing the system to fetch and execute the attacker-controlled code. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-98 category of "Improper Neutralization of Directives in Dynamically-Generated Code" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell." The flaw demonstrates a classic path traversal and code injection vulnerability pattern that has been consistently observed in web application frameworks lacking proper input sanitization mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Successful exploitation enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to the affected Joomla components that utilize similar flawed parameter handling patterns, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple vulnerable components exist. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy web shells, conduct data exfiltration, or use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability also presents significant risks to website owners and administrators who may not immediately detect unauthorized code execution, as malicious activities can persist undetected for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-4320 require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and parameter sanitization. System administrators should prioritize updating to the latest stable versions of OpenSEF and Joomla! platforms where the vulnerability has been patched. The implementation of input validation measures including strict parameter sanitization, whitelisting of acceptable input values, and proper URL validation should be enforced within the application code. Additionally, security measures such as disabling remote file inclusion features, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting regular security audits can significantly reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also establish monitoring protocols to detect unusual file inclusion patterns and unauthorized code execution attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to security standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for preventing injection flaws in web applications.