CVE-2006-6957 in Docebo
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in addons/mod_media/body.php in Docebo 3.0.3 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the GLOBALS[where_framework] parameter. NOTE: this issue might be resultant from a global overwrite vulnerability. This issue is similar to CVE-2006-2576 and CVE-2006-3107, but the vectors are different.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2017
This vulnerability exists in Docebo 3.0.3 and earlier versions where the PHP application fails to properly validate input parameters, specifically the GLOBALS[where_framework] parameter in the addons/mod_media/body.php file. The flaw occurs when register_globals is enabled on the web server, creating a dangerous environment where user-supplied input can directly influence global variable assignment. This represents a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious PHP code through crafted URLs, effectively bypassing normal application security controls.
The technical exploitation mechanism relies on the dangerous PHP configuration setting register_globals=on which automatically converts HTTP request variables into global variables without proper sanitization. When an attacker manipulates the GLOBALS[where_framework] parameter to include a malicious URL, the application's insecure code execution flow allows the remote file to be included and executed within the context of the web server process. This vulnerability is categorized under CWE-88 as "Argument Injection" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP." The vulnerability demonstrates how improper input validation combined with insecure PHP configurations creates a pathway for arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation enables remote code execution, allowing threat actors to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects not just the target application but potentially the entire server infrastructure, as the executed code runs with the privileges of the web server process. This creates a significant risk for organizations using Docebo without proper input validation mechanisms and insecure PHP configurations, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools.
Mitigation strategies must address both the immediate vulnerability and underlying security misconfigurations. Organizations should immediately disable register_globals in php.ini configuration files and implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters. The application should employ a whitelist approach for file inclusion operations and use secure coding practices such as the principle of least privilege for file operations. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, input filtering mechanisms, and regular security audits can prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider upgrading to patched versions of Docebo, as this vulnerability was addressed in subsequent releases that properly validate input parameters and eliminate reliance on insecure PHP configurations. Network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns can provide additional defense-in-depth measures against similar attacks.