CVE-2006-7024 in Harpia
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Harpia CMS 1.0.5 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) func_prog parameter to (a) preload.php and (b) index.php; (2) header_prog parameter to (c) missing.php and (d) email.php, (e) files.php, (f) headlines.php, (g) search.php, (h) topics.php, and (i) users.php in _mods/; (3) theme_root parameter to (j) footer.php, (k) header.php, (l) pfooter.php, and (m) pheader.php in _inc; (4) mod_root parameter to _inc/header.php; and the (5) mod_dir and (6) php_ext parameters to (n) _inc/web_statsConfig.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/04/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw in Harpia CMS versions 1.0.5 and earlier, classified under the CWE-88 weakness category for improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters that are directly incorporated into PHP include statements without adequate security controls. Attackers can exploit this by manipulating specific parameters in multiple script files to inject malicious URLs that get executed as PHP code on the target server. The flaw exists across multiple entry points within the application's architecture, making it particularly dangerous as it provides numerous attack vectors for remote code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the use of PHP's include or require functions with user-controllable variables. When the application processes parameters such as func_prog, header_prog, theme_root, mod_root, mod_dir, and php_ext, it directly incorporates these values into file inclusion operations without proper validation or sanitization. This allows attackers to specify remote URLs that contain malicious PHP code, which gets executed by the web server when the vulnerable scripts are accessed. The vulnerability specifically affects the preload.php, index.php, missing.php, email.php, files.php, headlines.php, search.php, topics.php, users.php, footer.php, header.php, pfooter.php, pheader.php, and web_statsConfig.php files, demonstrating the widespread nature of the flaw throughout the CMS's codebase.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and can lead to complete system compromise when exploited successfully. Remote attackers can execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially gaining full control over the web application and underlying system. This allows for data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, privilege escalation, and persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability enables attackers to upload backdoors, modify content, steal sensitive information, and use the compromised server for further attacks against other systems. The widespread nature of the vulnerability across multiple files and parameters increases the likelihood of successful exploitation and makes defensive measures more challenging to implement effectively.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and sanitization. Organizations should apply the latest security patches from the vendor if available, or implement input validation controls that reject suspicious characters and patterns in user-supplied parameters. The recommended approach includes implementing allowlists for valid input values, using absolute paths for file inclusion operations, and disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configurations. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and monitoring for unusual file inclusion patterns can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Security measures should align with the principle of least privilege and follow secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a remote code execution technique that can be used for initial access and lateral movement within compromised environments, making early remediation critical for maintaining system integrity and preventing further security breaches.