CVE-2006-6631 in osprey
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in lib/xml/oai/GetRecord.php in osprey 1.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the lib_dir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-6631 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the osprey 1.0 software suite, specifically within the lib/xml/oai/GetRecord.php component. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and remote code execution, creating a significant security risk for affected systems. The flaw stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data before using it in file inclusion operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to inject malicious URLs through the lib_dir parameter, enabling arbitrary code execution on the target system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes the lib_dir parameter without adequate validation or sanitization. When a malicious user submits a URL through this parameter, the application treats it as a legitimate file path and attempts to include the remote file. This behavior directly violates secure coding principles and creates an attack surface where remote code execution becomes possible. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-98 weakness, 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 flaw demonstrates poor input handling practices that enable attackers to manipulate the application's file inclusion mechanisms.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents severe implications for system security and data integrity. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary PHP code, potentially gaining full control over the affected server, accessing sensitive data, or establishing persistent backdoors. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential privilege escalation and lateral movement within network environments. Organizations running affected versions of osprey face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and implementation of proper input validation controls. The most effective remediation involves updating to a patched version of osprey that addresses this specific flaw. Organizations should also implement strict input validation for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Implementing a whitelist approach for allowed file paths and using absolute paths instead of user-supplied inputs can prevent exploitation. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can provide additional defense in depth. Security monitoring should include detection of suspicious parameter values and unusual file access patterns. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege when handling user input in web applications, particularly those involving dynamic file operations.