CVE-2006-6255 in NukeAI
Summary
by MITRE
Direct static code injection vulnerability in util.php in the NukeAI 0.0.3 Beta module for PHP-Nuke, aka Program E is an AIML chatterbot, allows remote attackers to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code via a filename with a .php extension in the filename parameter and code in the moreinfo parameter, which is saved to a filename under descriptions/, which is accessible via a direct request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2024
The CVE-2006-6255 vulnerability represents a critical direct static code injection flaw within the NukeAI 0.0.3 Beta module for PHP-Nuke, specifically affecting the util.php component. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied data before processing. The flaw exists in the module's handling of filename parameters and moreinfo content, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute malicious code within the target system's context. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it allows attackers to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code directly through web-based interfaces, bypassing normal security controls that would typically prevent such operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes user input through the filename parameter containing a .php extension and additional code within the moreinfo parameter. The system fails to validate or sanitize these inputs before storing them in the descriptions/ directory, which is subsequently accessible via direct HTTP requests. This creates a classic file upload vulnerability where attacker-controlled code can be written to the filesystem and subsequently executed when accessed through a web browser or other HTTP clients. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no special privileges or authentication to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in environments where the application is publicly accessible.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, remote attackers can execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive data, modify system files, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the targeted system, as attackers can read all files accessible to the web server process, modify existing code, and potentially escalate privileges to gain deeper system access. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter." The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate access controls that are common in legacy PHP applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-6255 require immediate attention through multiple defensive layers. The primary remediation involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file naming operations. The application should enforce whitelist validation for filename extensions, reject any input containing .php or other executable extensions, and sanitize all user content before storage. Additionally, the descriptions/ directory should be secured through proper access controls, ensuring that uploaded files cannot be directly executed through the web server. System administrators should implement proper file permissions, disable PHP execution in upload directories, and consider using secure file upload mechanisms that store files outside the web root. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional protection against exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack, while also implementing proper patch management processes to ensure timely resolution of known security flaws.