CVE-2006-4644 in phpFullAnnu
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in modules/home.module.php in phpFullAnnu 5.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the repmod parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4644 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the phpFullAnnu content management system version 5.1 and earlier. This vulnerability exists in the modules/home.module.php file where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input passed through the repmod parameter. The flaw enables malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that are then processed by the application, creating a pathway for remote code execution. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation practices where the application directly incorporates user-supplied data into file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization or verification.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The flaw occurs when the application accepts a URL parameter and uses it directly in a require or include statement without proper validation. This creates a condition where an attacker can manipulate the repmod parameter to point to malicious remote files hosted on attacker-controlled servers. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution vector because successful exploitation allows the attacker to execute arbitrary code within the context of the web application, potentially gaining access to sensitive data, modifying content, or establishing persistent access to the compromised system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute malicious PHP scripts on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability can be exploited through simple HTTP requests that manipulate the repmod parameter, making it particularly dangerous as it requires minimal technical expertise to exploit. Once compromised, the system may be used as a staging ground for further attacks, including data exfiltration, lateral movement within networks, or as a pivot point for attacking other systems. The vulnerability also poses risks to data integrity and confidentiality, as attackers can potentially access sensitive information stored within the application's database or file system. Additionally, the compromised system may be used to distribute malware to visitors or to launch attacks against other targets, creating a broader security impact beyond the immediate system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate fix involves patching the application to version 5.2 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and sanitization of the repmod parameter. Organizations should implement proper input validation that rejects any non-local file references and validates all user-supplied data before processing. The implementation of a whitelist approach for file inclusion operations, where only predefined, trusted files are allowed, provides an additional layer of defense. Security measures should also include disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in the PHP configuration, using the allow_url_include directive set to off. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and to ensure that proper security practices are maintained throughout the software development lifecycle. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and other industry standards to prevent similar issues from occurring in future development efforts.