CVE-2006-4545 in ModuleBased CMS
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in ModuleBased CMS Pre-Alpha allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the _SERVER parameter in (1) admin/avatar.php, (2) libs/archive.class.php, (3) libs/login.php, (4) libs/profiles.class.php, and (5) libs/profile/proccess.php. NOTE: CVE disputes this claim, as the _SERVER array and the _SERVER[DOCUMENT_ROOT] index are controlled by PHP and cannot be manipulated by an attacker.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-4545 pertains to a potential remote file inclusion flaw within ModuleBased CMS Pre-Alpha version, which would theoretically allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary PHP code through manipulation of the _SERVER parameter. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of remote code execution vulnerabilities that have historically posed significant security risks to web applications. The affected files include critical administrative and library components such as admin/avatar.php, libs/archive.class.php, libs/login.php, libs/profiles.class.php, and libs/profile/process.php, suggesting a widespread impact across the CMS functionality. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability represents a critical threat vector that could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying system and potentially escalate privileges to full administrative control.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and insecure parameter handling within the CMS codebase. When applications fail to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into dynamic file paths or includes, they create opportunities for attackers to manipulate the execution flow. The _SERVER parameter, which contains server environment variables in PHP, would theoretically be exploited to inject malicious file paths that could be included and executed by the web server. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes the improper control of generation of code, and represents a classic example of how insecure coding practices can lead to remote code execution. The attack vector would typically involve crafting malicious URLs with specially formatted parameters that bypass normal input validation mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it could potentially allow attackers to establish persistent access to the compromised system. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and the installation of backdoors or other malicious software. The affected components suggest that the vulnerability could impact user authentication, profile management, and administrative functions, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate user accounts, modify system configurations, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive data. This type of vulnerability would be particularly concerning in environments where the CMS serves as a critical component of business operations or handles sensitive information. The potential for privilege escalation and lateral movement within network environments makes this a high-severity threat that requires immediate attention.
Industry standards such as CWE-94 and ATT&CK framework's T1059.007 technique for executing malicious code through PHP include statements demonstrate the recognized nature of this vulnerability type. The disputed nature of this CVE, as noted in the description, stems from the fundamental misunderstanding of how PHP's _SERVER array operates within the web server environment. The assertion that _SERVER[DOCUMENT_ROOT] cannot be manipulated by attackers is technically correct, as this server variable is automatically populated by PHP based on the server configuration and is not directly controllable by user input. This clarification aligns with established PHP security practices and highlights the importance of accurate vulnerability assessment and classification. Organizations should focus on proper input validation, secure coding practices, and regular security assessments to prevent such vulnerabilities from occurring in their web applications, rather than relying on potentially inaccurate vulnerability claims that do not reflect the actual attack surface or exploitability conditions.