CVE-2007-0230 in CS-Cart
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in install.php in CS-Cart 1.3.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the install_dir parameter. NOTE: CVE and third parties dispute this vulnerability because install_dir is defined before use.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-0230 relates to a potential remote file inclusion issue within the CS-Cart e-commerce platform version 1.3.3. This particular vulnerability was flagged in the install.php file where the install_dir parameter could theoretically be manipulated by remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code. The nature of this flaw would classify it under the broader category of remote code execution vulnerabilities that have significant implications for web application security. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous because they allow attackers to gain unauthorized control over the affected system and potentially escalate their privileges to execute malicious code remotely.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the improper handling of user-supplied input within the installation script of CS-Cart. When the install_dir parameter is passed to the install.php file without proper sanitization or validation, it creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious URLs that could lead to remote code execution. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code" and specifically relates to situations where untrusted data is used to construct code that gets executed. The flaw represents a classic example of a remote file inclusion vulnerability that could allow attackers to include and execute malicious PHP scripts hosted on external servers, thereby compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities as it provides attackers with the means to gain complete control over the affected web server. Attackers could potentially upload backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify existing files, or even use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. This vulnerability would be particularly concerning for e-commerce platforms that store sensitive customer information, payment data, and business-critical operational data. The potential for data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage makes this vulnerability a serious concern for any organization running vulnerable versions of CS-Cart.
Despite the initial classification of this vulnerability, it is important to note that both the CVE and third-party assessments have disputed its validity due to the assertion that install_dir is defined before use. This dispute highlights the complexity of vulnerability assessment and the importance of thorough analysis before categorizing security flaws. The disputed nature of this vulnerability underscores the necessity of careful evaluation of reported security issues and the importance of understanding the actual code behavior before determining the true risk level. Organizations should continue to maintain robust security practices regardless of disputed vulnerability classifications, as the potential for exploitation remains a concern when dealing with web application security flaws. The incident also demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in software development practices, which aligns with security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.