CVE-2006-4824 in Quicksilver Forums
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in lib/activeutil.php in Quicksilver Forums (QSF) 1.2.1 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the set[include_path] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4824 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within Quicksilver Forums version 1.2.1 and earlier systems. This vulnerability exists in the activeutil.php library file and specifically targets the set[include_path] parameter which is improperly validated and sanitized. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the include_path parameter, enabling them to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and represents a classic example of how improper input validation can lead to remote code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to leverage the server's PHP processing capabilities to execute malicious code, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied input within the activeutil.php file. When the set[include_path] parameter is processed, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in include or require statements. This lack of input sanitization creates an environment where attackers can inject malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting malicious PHP code. The vulnerability is classified as CWE-98, which specifically addresses improper restriction of operations within a recognized operating system, and aligns with CWE-20, which covers improper input validation. The flaw directly enables attackers to perform remote code execution by manipulating the include path mechanism, effectively bypassing normal security controls and allowing arbitrary code execution in the context of the web server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to gain complete control over affected systems. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or further network infiltration. The vulnerability enables attackers to download and execute malicious code from remote servers, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that process user input. This type of vulnerability is categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as technique T1059.007, which covers the execution of code through PHP and other scripting languages. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential privilege escalation, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors within the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary solution involves upgrading to Quicksilver Forums version 1.2.2 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address this vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization techniques, ensuring that all user-supplied input is rigorously checked before processing. The implementation of a whitelist approach for include paths, where only pre-approved file paths are allowed, provides an effective defense mechanism against similar vulnerabilities. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Security measures should also include disabling the ability to set include paths through user input, implementing proper access controls, and regularly monitoring server logs for suspicious activities. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems within their infrastructure.