CVE-2006-4349 in ToendaCMS
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in ToendaCMS 1.0.3 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the tcms_administer_site parameter to an unspecified script, probably index.php. NOTE: this issue has been disputed by a third party, who states that $tcms_administer_site is initialized to a constant value within index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4349 pertains to a remote file inclusion flaw discovered in ToendaCMS version 1.0.3 and earlier implementations. This type of vulnerability represents a critical security weakness that can potentially allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw specifically exists within the handling of user-supplied input in the tcms_administer_site parameter, which is processed through an unspecified script likely involving index.php as the entry point. Such vulnerabilities fall under the broader category of insecure input handling and improper validation of user-supplied data.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the improper sanitization and validation of the tcms_administer_site parameter, which allows remote attackers to inject malicious URLs that can be executed as PHP code. When the application processes this parameter without adequate input validation, it creates an opportunity for attackers to include external files that may contain malicious code. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper file inclusion vulnerabilities, and specifically relates to CWE-20, the broad category of improper input validation. The attack vector typically involves crafting a malicious URL that gets passed to the vulnerable parameter, potentially leading to remote code execution on the target server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to gain full control over the affected system. Once successful, attackers can upload additional malicious files, modify existing content, escalate privileges, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The remote nature of this vulnerability means that attackers do not need physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. This type of vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter, and T1105, which addresses remote file execution, both of which are commonly used in post-exploitation phases of cyber attacks.
Despite the disputed nature of this vulnerability as noted in the original description, the potential for remote code execution remains a significant concern for systems running affected versions of ToendaCMS. The third-party dispute regarding the initialization of $tcms_administer_site to a constant value suggests that the vulnerability may be more complex than initially reported, but does not eliminate the risk entirely. Organizations should treat this as a potential threat and implement appropriate mitigations including input validation, parameter sanitization, and the immediate application of security patches when available. The disputed status does not negate the need for defensive measures, as the vulnerability could still exist in other forms or configurations within the application's codebase.