CVE-2006-4372 in Constructor component
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in admin.lurm_constructor.php in the Lurm Constructor component (com_lurm_constructor) 0.6b and earlier for Mambo allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the lm_absolute_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-4372 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Lurm Constructor component version 0.6b and earlier for the Mambo content management system. This vulnerability exists in the admin.lurm_constructor.php file where user-supplied input is not properly validated or sanitized before being used in file inclusion operations. The specific parameter lm_absolute_path serves as the attack vector, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that are subsequently processed by the PHP include mechanism.
This vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically relates to CWE-94, which encompasses the execution of arbitrary code due to improper input validation. The flaw enables attackers to leverage the remote file inclusion capability to execute malicious PHP code on the target server, effectively bypassing the intended security boundaries of the application. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for arbitrary code execution without requiring authentication or specific user interaction.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Once exploited, attackers can execute commands on the server with the privileges of the web application, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects the entire Mambo platform, making it a widespread concern for organizations using this CMS version. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet, requiring no local access to the target system. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to automated attack tools and malicious actors seeking to compromise multiple systems simultaneously.
Security mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the affected component to version 0.6b or later, which should contain proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict input validation on all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that the web application runs with minimal necessary permissions, limiting potential damage from successful exploitation. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can be configured to detect and block malicious requests targeting this specific vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the need for proper application hardening and regular security updates to prevent such exploitation scenarios.