CVE-2006-4373 in pSlash
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in modules/visitors2/include/config.inc.php in pSlash 0.70 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the lvc_include_dir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4373 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the pSlash content management system version 0.70. This vulnerability exists within the modules/visitors2/include/config.inc.php file where the lvc_include_dir parameter is directly incorporated into a require or include statement without proper input validation or sanitization. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly validate user-supplied input before using it in dynamic file inclusion operations, creating an avenue for attackers to inject malicious PHP code through crafted URL parameters.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-98 category of Improper Input Validation, specifically manifesting as a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) vulnerability that aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application. The technical implementation of this flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the lvc_include_dir parameter to point to a remote malicious script hosted on an attacker-controlled server. When the vulnerable application processes this parameter, it executes the remote code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially enabling full system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with arbitrary code execution capabilities on the affected web server. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to upload and execute malicious scripts, establish backdoors, perform data exfiltration, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector requires minimal user interaction since the vulnerability can be exploited through simple URL manipulation, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the pSlash application to version 0.71 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures to ensure all user-supplied parameters are properly validated before being used in file inclusion operations. The use of allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives should be disabled in php.ini configurations to prevent remote file inclusion attacks. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, network segmentation, and regular security assessments can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices including the principle of least privilege and input validation as recommended by the OWASP Top Ten project.