CVE-2006-4348 in Kochsuite Component
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in config.kochsuite.php in the Kochsuite (com_kochsuite) 0.9.4 component for Mambo and 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 • 07/14/2024
This vulnerability exists in the Kochsuite component version 0.9.4 for Mambo and Joomla! platforms, specifically within the config.kochsuite.php file. The flaw represents a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious PHP code through the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, which covers inadequate control of generation of code. The vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system by manipulating the parameter to point to a remote malicious file, effectively bypassing the intended security boundaries of the application.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input validation and sanitization within the component's configuration handling mechanism. When the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter is passed to the config.kochsuite.php file, the application does not adequately validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This allows an attacker to inject a URL that points to a remote server hosting malicious PHP code, which then gets executed on the target system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the application level and can be exploited without requiring authentication or elevated privileges, making it a significant threat to web application security.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation can result in arbitrary code execution, data theft, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within the network. Attackers can use this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive information, or deploy additional malware. The vulnerability affects both Mambo and Joomla! platforms, which were widely used content management systems at the time, making the potential attack surface extensive. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for execution through PHP and T1566 for initial access via remote services, representing both execution and initial access tactics.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the affected component to version 0.9.5 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent malicious URLs from being processed in parameter values. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by configuring web server permissions to limit file inclusion capabilities. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other components. Organizations should also consider implementing secure coding practices that prevent the use of user-controllable input in file inclusion operations, as specified in OWASP Top 10 security guidelines for preventing injection vulnerabilities.