CVE-2006-6150 in OWLLib
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in memory/OWLMemoryProperty.php in OWLLib 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the OWLLIB_ROOT parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-6150 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the OWLLib 1.0 library, specifically affecting the memory/OWLMemoryProperty.php component. This issue arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that permit attackers to inject malicious URLs through the OWLLIB_ROOT parameter, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability exists in the context of PHP applications that utilize OWLLib for semantic web data processing and memory management operations, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that rely on this library for ontology handling and linked data processing.
The technical flaw manifests as a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability classified under CWE-88, where the OWLLib library fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. When the OWLLIB_ROOT parameter receives a URL containing malicious PHP code, the application's include or require statements execute the remote code as if it were local, effectively allowing attackers to inject and run arbitrary PHP scripts on the target server. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the inherent trust placed in library components, making it particularly insidious as it can be exploited through legitimate library usage patterns.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Successful exploitation enables unauthorized access to server resources, potential data breaches, and the ability to establish persistent backdoors within the web application environment. The vulnerability affects organizations using OWLLib 1.0 in their semantic web applications, particularly those processing linked data or implementing ontology-based systems. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage, creating a complete attack chain from initial compromise to persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-6150 require immediate patching of the OWLLib library to version 1.1 or later, which addresses the input validation issues in the OWLMemoryProperty.php component. Organizations should implement strict input validation mechanisms that sanitize all parameters before processing, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting file inclusion capabilities to trusted local paths only, and implementing whitelisting approaches for valid library paths. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth layers to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious URL patterns in application logs, and regular security assessments should verify that no other similar vulnerabilities exist within the application's dependency chain. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in preventing remote code execution scenarios that can lead to complete system compromise.