CVE-2006-6426 in thinkedit
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in design/thinkedit/render.php in ThinkEdit 1.9.2 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the template_file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-6426 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the ThinkEdit content management system version 1.9.2 and earlier. This issue specifically affects installations where the PHP configuration parameter register_globals is enabled, creating a dangerous condition that allows attackers to inject malicious code through carefully crafted URLs. The vulnerability exists in the design/thinkedit/render.php file, which processes user-supplied input without proper validation or sanitization, making it susceptible to exploitation by remote threat actors seeking to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the dangerous behavior of PHP's register_globals directive, which automatically creates global variables from request parameters. When this setting is enabled, an attacker can manipulate the template_file parameter to include external URLs containing malicious PHP code. The render.php script processes this parameter directly without adequate input validation, allowing the inclusion of remote files that execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process. This creates a pathway for attackers to gain unauthorized access to the system, potentially leading to complete compromise of the affected server and its underlying data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and conduct further reconnaissance within the compromised environment. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload backdoors, modify existing files, steal sensitive information, or use the compromised system as a launching point for attacks on other network resources. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically with CWE-94, which covers the execution of arbitrary code. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a remote code execution technique, specifically under the T1059.007 sub-technique for scripting languages. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling the register_globals directive in PHP configurations, validating and sanitizing all user inputs, and implementing proper access controls. Additionally, regular security updates and patch management processes should be enforced to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in other software components. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of secure coding practices and the dangers of legacy PHP configurations that enable dangerous behaviors.