CVE-2006-7153 in MiniBB
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in MiniBB Forum 2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a URL in the pathToFiles parameter.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2018
The CVE-2006-7153 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw discovered in MiniBB Forum 2's index.php script that exposes the application to arbitrary code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets the pathToFiles parameter which is susceptible to manipulation by remote attackers. The flaw exists within the application's input validation mechanisms where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or validation. The vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-98 Improper Control of Generation of Code, which is a well-documented weakness in software applications that allows attackers to inject and execute malicious code through improper handling of file paths or inclusion directives. This issue directly relates to the ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it represents a common vector through which attackers compromise web applications by exploiting remote code execution vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes user input through the pathToFiles parameter in the index.php file. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL as the value for this parameter, the application's flawed code execution flow attempts to include and execute the remote file specified in the URL. This creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious PHP code that gets executed within the context of the web server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and output encoding that permits attackers to bypass normal application security controls and directly manipulate the file inclusion process. This type of vulnerability often stems from poor security practices in early web application development where developers failed to implement proper parameter sanitization or use of secure file inclusion methods.
The operational impact of CVE-2006-7153 is severe and multifaceted, affecting both the availability and confidentiality of the affected system. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the web server process. This typically results in unauthorized access to sensitive data, potential lateral movement within the network, and the ability to establish persistent backdoors. Organizations running vulnerable versions of MiniBB Forum 2 face significant risks including data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the system, making it particularly attractive for automated attack campaigns. The impact extends beyond immediate system compromise to include potential damage to reputation, financial losses, and legal consequences associated with data exposure. The vulnerability also affects the application's integrity, as attackers can modify or replace legitimate files with malicious equivalents, leading to ongoing security risks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2006-7153 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive measures to protect against exploitation. The primary remediation involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Developers should replace vulnerable include or require statements with hardcoded, whitelisted values or implement strict validation of file paths to prevent remote URL inclusion. The recommended approach aligns with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and follows the principle of least privilege by ensuring that applications only include files from trusted sources. Organizations should also implement proper web application firewalls and input filtering mechanisms to detect and block malicious requests containing suspicious URL patterns. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application. Additionally, system administrators should ensure that vulnerable applications are patched or upgraded to versions that address this specific flaw, as the original MiniBB Forum 2 version containing this vulnerability is no longer supported. The implementation of secure coding practices, including the use of secure file inclusion methods and proper parameter validation, should be integrated into the development lifecycle to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future releases.