CVE-2006-6975 in centipaid
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in centipaid_class.php in CentiPaid 1.4.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a URL in the class_pwd parameter. NOTE: this issue has been disputed by CVE and multiple third parties, who state that $class_pwd is set to a static value before the relevant include statement.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/17/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-6975 relates to a potential remote file inclusion flaw within the CentiPaid 1.4.3 web application, specifically in the centipaid_class.php file. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and represents a critical security risk that could allow unauthorized remote code execution. The reported issue suggests that an attacker could manipulate the class_pwd parameter to include and execute arbitrary code from a remote location, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and represents a classic example of how parameter manipulation can lead to arbitrary code execution in web applications.
The technical flaw stems from the improper handling of user input within the PHP application's include statement. When the class_pwd parameter is processed, it appears that the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in an include directive. This creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting malicious code. The vulnerability operates at the application level where user-controllable data is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without adequate security controls. The attack vector demonstrates a lack of proper input validation and sanitization practices, which are fundamental requirements in secure coding standards. This flaw directly contradicts the principle of least privilege and input validation that are essential components of secure application development.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Successful exploitation could result in complete compromise of the affected web server, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web application. This would enable attackers to access sensitive data, modify application functionality, install backdoors, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability could also lead to data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. From an attacker perspective, this represents a high-value target due to the potential for persistent access and the relatively low effort required to exploit the flaw. The implications extend beyond immediate system compromise to include potential lateral movement within network infrastructure and long-term persistence.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization techniques. The recommended approach includes removing the direct user input from the include statement and instead using a whitelist of predefined values for the class_pwd parameter. This aligns with the principle of defense in depth and follows established secure coding practices. Additionally, implementing proper parameter validation, using absolute paths for includes, and employing secure coding guidelines such as those outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices can prevent similar vulnerabilities. The fix should involve ensuring that any dynamic values used in include statements are properly validated against a known safe set of values rather than accepting arbitrary user input. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and runtime application self-protection mechanisms to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and the dangers of insecure file inclusion operations in web applications.