CVE-2006-6793 in Okul Merkezi Portal
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in ataturk.php in Okul Merkezi Portal 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the page parameter.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/29/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-6793 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Okul Merkezi Portal 1.0 web application, specifically within the ataturk.php script. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of insecure direct object references and remote code execution risks that have plagued web applications for over a decade. The flaw occurs when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input that is used to include external files, creating an avenue for attackers to inject malicious code through crafted URLs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's improper handling of the page parameter in the ataturk.php file. When a user provides a URL value through this parameter, the application directly incorporates it into file inclusion operations without adequate validation or sanitization. This creates a pathway for attackers to reference external resources such as remote PHP scripts hosted on malicious servers, effectively allowing them to execute arbitrary code on the target system with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution flaw and maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Once exploited, an attacker can execute commands on the server, potentially leading to data breaches, system compromise, and further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no local access or authentication, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools. This vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the execution and privilege escalation domains, particularly targeting the use of remote code execution techniques to gain unauthorized access to systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address the core issue of input validation and secure file inclusion practices. Organizations should implement proper parameter validation that rejects any input containing suspicious characters or patterns associated with remote file inclusion attempts. The recommended approach involves using allowlists of permitted values rather than denylists, ensuring that only predefined, safe file paths can be included. Additionally, the application should be updated to use secure coding practices that prevent dynamic file inclusion based on user-provided input. System administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems that can identify and block suspicious patterns associated with remote file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding guidelines and demonstrates why input validation and proper sanitization of user data remain fundamental security controls in web application development. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scans to identify similar flaws in their web applications and ensure that all third-party components are kept up to date with the latest security patches.