CVE-2006-6567 in Kb Mods
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/kb_constants.php in the Knowledge Base (mx_kb) 2.0.2 module for mxBB allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the module_root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-6567 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the mxBB Knowledge Base module version 2.0.2. This issue resides in the includes/kb_constants.php file where the application fails to properly validate user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations. The vulnerability specifically affects the module_root_path parameter which is directly influenced by external input without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, which encompasses improper execution of code due to unsafe use of dynamic code generation or execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the module_root_path parameter to the vulnerable application. The application then incorporates this user-controlled input directly into a file inclusion directive, allowing the attacker to load and execute arbitrary PHP code from remote servers. This attack vector demonstrates the classic characteristics of a remote file inclusion vulnerability where the application's failure to validate input enables an attacker to manipulate the execution flow and potentially gain complete control over the affected system. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires no authentication to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in unpatched environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this flaw to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy additional malicious payloads within the compromised environment. The vulnerability affects web applications running the mxBB Knowledge Base module, potentially exposing organizations to data breaches, service disruption, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. From an att&ck framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, where attackers can execute commands through the vulnerable PHP code execution mechanism. The lack of input validation creates an attack surface that allows adversaries to perform reconnaissance, privilege escalation, and lateral movement within the compromised network.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of several defensive measures including input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Organizations should implement proper parameter validation that rejects any input containing suspicious characters or patterns that could indicate an attempt at remote file inclusion. The recommended solution involves either disabling remote file inclusion functionality entirely or implementing strict whitelisting of allowed paths and URLs. Additionally, the application should be updated to a patched version of the mxBB Knowledge Base module that addresses this specific vulnerability. Security configurations should also enforce secure coding practices such as using include_once or require_once with validated and sanitized paths instead of dynamic inclusion based on user input. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding guidelines and implementing proper input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and other industry standards for preventing such critical security flaws.