CVE-2006-6645 in Mxbb Web Links
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in language/lang_english/lang_admin.php in the Web Links (mx_links) 2.05 and earlier module for mxBB allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mx_root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2006-6645 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the mxBB Web Links module version 2.05 and earlier. This issue resides in the language/lang_english/lang_admin.php file where improper input validation allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the mx_root_path parameter. The vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-98 - Improper Control of Generation of Code, specifically manifesting as a remote code execution vector through insecure file inclusion mechanisms. The affected mxBB module operates within PHP environments where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion contexts, creating an avenue for attackers to execute malicious code on the target server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and injects it into the mx_root_path parameter, which is then processed by the vulnerable PHP application. This parameter is typically used to define the root path for module operations, but due to insufficient input validation, the application treats the injected URL as a legitimate file path. When the application attempts to include this path, it executes the remote PHP code contained in the attacker-controlled URL. This represents a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability that enables attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to establish persistent access to the compromised system. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload backdoor scripts, escalate privileges, or exfiltrate sensitive data from the affected server. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur without physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible. Organizations running affected versions of mxBB face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential complete system compromise. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, which describes methods used to exploit vulnerabilities in publicly accessible applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected mxBB module to version 2.06 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Additionally, administrators should implement proper input sanitization measures, including the use of allowlists for valid path values and the removal of any dynamic path inclusion mechanisms that do not properly validate user input. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls can provide additional protection by detecting and blocking suspicious URL patterns in the mx_root_path parameter. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices, particularly around parameter validation and file inclusion operations, which should be addressed through comprehensive security training for development teams and implementation of secure coding standards. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify any other potentially affected modules or applications within their mxBB installations that might exhibit similar insecure file inclusion patterns.