CVE-2006-6225 in GeekLog
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in GeekLog 1.4 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a URL in the _CONF[path] parameter to (1) links/functions.inc, (2) polls/functions.inc, (3) spamx/BlackList.Examine.class.php, (4) spamx/DeleteComment.Action.class.php, (5) spamx/EditIPofURL.Admin.class.php, (6) spamx/MTBlackList.Examine.class.php, (7) spamx/MassDelete.Admin.class.php, (8) spamx/MailAdmin.Action.class.php, (9) spamx/MassDelTrackback.Admin.class.php, (10) spamx/EditHeader.Admin.class.php, (11) spamx/EditIP.Admin.class.php, (12) spamx/IPofUrl.Examine.class.php, (13) spamx/Import.Admin.class.php, (14) spamx/LogView.Admin.class.php, and (15) staticpages/functions.inc, in the plugins/ directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2024
The CVE-2006-6225 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in GeekLog 1.4 that exposes multiple entry points for attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the application's plugin architecture, specifically targeting the _CONF[path] parameter that controls file inclusion operations. The flaw affects seventeen distinct files within the plugins/ directory, creating a widespread attack surface that spans across various plugin functionalities including links, polls, spamx management, and static pages modules. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution issue that aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and specifically relates to CWE-94, which covers inadequate control of generation of code, making it a direct path for arbitrary code execution through malicious file inclusion.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the _CONF[path] parameter to include malicious URLs that point to remote files containing attacker-controlled code. This allows the web application to execute arbitrary PHP code from external sources, effectively granting remote attackers complete control over the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects multiple plugin modules simultaneously, meaning that attackers can choose from several potential attack vectors to compromise the system. Each of the fifteen affected files serves as a potential entry point for code execution, making the attack surface significantly larger than typical single-file vulnerabilities. The flaw demonstrates a fundamental lack of input sanitization and proper parameter validation, enabling attackers to bypass normal security boundaries and execute malicious payloads directly within the web application context.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-6225 is severe and far-reaching, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data theft, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify or delete critical application files, and establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of GeekLog's plugin architecture, potentially disrupting legitimate user operations while providing attackers with unlimited access to the underlying server infrastructure. Organizations running affected versions of GeekLog face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory violations. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1190, "Exploit Public-Facing Application," indicates that it represents a common attack pattern targeting web applications, while the remote code execution capability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, "Command and Scripting Interpreter," demonstrating the full spectrum of malicious activities possible through this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-6225 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability through code-level fixes and system hardening measures. The most effective approach involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all parameters that influence file inclusion operations, particularly the _CONF[path] parameter. Organizations should immediately upgrade to a patched version of GeekLog 1.4 or migrate to a more recent stable release that addresses this vulnerability. The implementation of proper parameter validation aligns with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and helps prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. Additional protective measures include disabling remote file inclusion features, implementing web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious requests, and conducting thorough security audits of all plugin modules. Network-level protections such as restricting access to plugin directories and implementing proper access controls can provide additional defense in depth. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be performed to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and ensure that the system maintains a secure configuration throughout its operational lifecycle.