CVE-2006-7148 in maluinfo
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/bb_usage_stats.php in maluinfo 206.2.38 for Brazilian PHPBB allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the phpbb_root_path parameter. NOTE: this might be the same issues as CVE-2006-4893.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2006-7148 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the maluinfo 206.2.38 software package designed for Brazilian PHPBB forums. This vulnerability specifically affects the includes/bb_usage_stats.php file and exploits a weakness in how the application handles the phpbb_root_path parameter. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and represents a severe security weakness that can be exploited without authentication or user interaction.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the PHPBB-based application. When the phpbb_root_path parameter is processed, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This allows attackers to manipulate the parameter to point to malicious remote files hosted on external servers. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the remote file inclusion capability inherent in PHP's include or require functions, where the application dynamically includes files based on user-supplied parameters without adequate security controls. This weakness directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of argument delimiters in a command, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code due to inadequate input validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to gain complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation could result in data theft, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to upload backdoors, establish persistent access, or use the compromised server as a launch point for attacking other systems. The vulnerability affects web applications built on the PHPBB platform, making it particularly concerning for forum administrators and web hosting providers who may have multiple vulnerable installations. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables attackers to execute commands through the PHP interpreter.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action from system administrators and security teams. The most effective approach involves patching the affected software to the latest version that contains proper input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement proper parameter validation and sanitization techniques to ensure that all user-supplied inputs are properly validated before being used in file inclusion operations. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection against such attacks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices, specifically avoiding the use of user-controllable parameters in file inclusion functions. Security measures should include disabling remote file inclusion in PHP configuration, implementing proper access controls, and conducting regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in web applications. The vulnerability also underscores the necessity of keeping all web applications updated and following security best practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework.