CVE-2006-6285 in simple
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in Kai Blankenhorn Bitfolge simple and nice index file (aka snif) 1.5.2 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the externalConfig parameter. NOTE: CVE and other third parties dispute this vulnerability because $externalConfig is defined before use.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-6285 relates to a potential remote file inclusion flaw within the Bitfolge simple and nice index file (snif) version 1.5.2 and earlier. This issue manifests in the index.php script where an externalConfig parameter is processed, potentially allowing malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters that are directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without adequate security checks.
The technical flaw occurs when the externalConfig parameter is passed to the index.php script and subsequently used in a file inclusion context without proper validation or sanitization. This creates an opportunity for remote attackers to manipulate the parameter value to point to malicious remote files or local paths containing malicious PHP code. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-98 as "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for "Server-Side Include Attack" and T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application." The flaw represents a classic remote code execution vulnerability that could be exploited through web-based attack vectors.
Operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to gain full control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data theft, or the deployment of additional malicious payloads. The vulnerability affects web applications running vulnerable versions of the snif software, potentially exposing organizations to persistent threats and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to establish backdoors, escalate privileges, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
While the vulnerability description notes that CVE and third parties dispute its existence due to the assertion that $externalConfig is defined before use, this does not necessarily invalidate the potential security risk. The disputed nature suggests that the actual implementation details may not fully support the vulnerability as initially described, but security professionals should still evaluate the specific code implementation and input handling mechanisms. Mitigation strategies should include implementing strict input validation, using allowlists for acceptable file paths, and avoiding direct user input in file inclusion operations. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls, regular security assessments, and maintaining updated software versions to address potential vulnerabilities in third-party applications. The incident highlights the importance of thorough code review processes and adherence to secure coding practices to prevent similar issues in web application development.