CVE-2006-6591 in EXlor
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in fonctions/template.php in EXlor 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the repphp parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-6591 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the EXlor 1.0 content management system, specifically within the fonctions/template.php component. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly validate user-supplied input passed through the repphp parameter, allowing attackers to inject malicious URLs that are subsequently included and executed as PHP code. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it enables attackers to bypass normal access controls and gain unauthorized execution capabilities on the target server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's improper handling of dynamic includes within the template processing system. When the repphp parameter is processed, the application directly incorporates user-provided URLs without adequate sanitization or validation, creating an environment where remote attackers can inject malicious PHP code. The vulnerability specifically affects the template.php file which serves as a central component for rendering application interfaces, making it a prime target for exploitation. This flaw aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper input validation leading to remote file inclusion, and represents a classic example of how insufficient parameter validation can lead to code execution vulnerabilities. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication and can be exploited through simple HTTP requests, making it highly accessible to threat actors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Successful exploitation allows malicious actors to upload and execute arbitrary files, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor access. The vulnerability affects the entire EXlor 1.0 platform and could result in service disruption, data loss, and potential lateral movement within network environments where the application is deployed. Organizations running this version of EXlor are at significant risk of unauthorized access and system compromise, particularly in environments where the application is exposed to untrusted networks. This vulnerability also represents a common entry point for attackers following the ATT&CK framework's initial access techniques, specifically leveraging remote services and exploiting software vulnerabilities to establish footholds within target environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary fix involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in dynamic include operations. Organizations should immediately patch or upgrade to a version of EXlor that addresses this vulnerability, as the flaw has been widely documented and exploited in the wild. Additionally, implementing proper parameter validation, using allowlists for acceptable input values, and avoiding dynamic includes with user-controlled data are essential defensive measures. Security configurations should include disabling remote file inclusion capabilities where possible and implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious requests. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning to identify similar issues in legacy applications, as such flaws often persist in older software versions that receive minimal security updates.