CVE-2006-4987 in Wili-CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Patrick Michaelis Wili-CMS allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the globals[content_dir] parameter in (1) example-view/templates/article.php, (2) example-view/templates/root.php, and (3) example-view/templates/dates_list.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/04/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-4987 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Patrick Michaelis Wili-CMS platform, classified under CWE-88 as improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression. This vulnerability exists in multiple template files of the CMS, specifically in example-view/templates/article.php, example-view/templates/root.php, and example-view/templates/dates_list.php, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input. The flaw occurs when the globals[content_dir] parameter is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization, creating an avenue for attackers to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted URLs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the CMS's insecure handling of dynamic file inclusion mechanisms. When the application processes the globals[content_dir] parameter, it constructs file paths using user-provided data without proper input validation or sanitization. This allows an attacker to inject malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting arbitrary PHP code, effectively enabling remote code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the core of the CMS's template processing system, where legitimate content directory paths are expected but can be subverted through malicious input manipulation.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability exposes the Wili-CMS to severe remote code execution attacks that can compromise entire web servers. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system, potentially gaining full administrative control, exfiltrating sensitive data, or deploying additional malware. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution as it can facilitate persistent backdoor installation, data theft, and further network reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of content management and template rendering, making it particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise web applications.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms throughout the CMS codebase. The recommended approach includes employing strict parameter validation to ensure that the globals[content_dir] parameter contains only expected directory paths and does not contain remote URL references. Additionally, the application should implement a whitelist-based approach for file inclusion operations, where only predetermined, safe paths are allowed for content directory specification. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious URL patterns and ensure that all CMS components are updated to versions that address this vulnerability through proper input sanitization. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, making it a prime target for automated exploitation frameworks targeting content management systems.