CVE-2007-0370 in phpBP
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in index.php in phpBP RC3 (2.204) and earlier allows remote administrators to inject arbitrary PHP code into an upload/banners/ file via a banners add operation that uploads the PHP code through an image_form parameter specifying a multiple-extension filename such as .jpg.vil.gif.php, which is stored in upload/banners/ under a different name, and executable via a direct request. NOTE: a separate SQL injection issue could be leveraged to make this vulnerability reachable by remote unauthenticated attackers.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2024
The CVE-2007-0370 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in phpBP RC3 version 2.204 and earlier, specifically affecting the index.php script within the upload/banners/ directory functionality. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly verify file extensions and content types during the upload process. The flaw allows remote administrators to bypass normal security restrictions by crafting malicious filenames with multiple extensions such as .jpg.vil.gif.php, which are then stored on the server with a different naming convention that maintains the executable PHP code within the file structure. This represents a classic case of insufficient file validation that violates security principle of least privilege and proper input sanitization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the banners add operation where the image_form parameter accepts a specially crafted filename containing multiple extensions. When the system processes this input, it fails to properly validate the file type and instead stores the uploaded file with a modified name that preserves the PHP execution capability. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows arbitrary PHP code injection directly into the web server's file system, enabling attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process. This flaw falls under CWE-434 Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, which is categorized as a high-risk vulnerability in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog due to its potential for remote code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code injection, as it provides a pathway for attackers to gain persistent access to the affected system. Once the malicious PHP code is uploaded and executed, attackers can establish backdoors, escalate privileges, or use the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability's reach is significantly amplified by the mentioned SQL injection issue that could potentially allow unauthenticated attackers to gain administrative access, transforming what might initially appear as an administrator-level vulnerability into a critical threat that can be exploited by any remote user. This combination of vulnerabilities creates a dangerous attack surface that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers target web applications to establish initial access.
The remediation strategy for CVE-2007-0370 requires immediate implementation of proper file validation controls including strict extension checking, content type verification, and the use of secure random naming conventions for uploaded files. Organizations should implement a whitelist approach for allowed file extensions rather than a blacklist, and ensure that uploaded files are stored outside the web root directory or are properly configured to prevent execution. Additionally, the underlying SQL injection vulnerability must be addressed through proper input sanitization and parameterized queries to prevent unauthorized administrative access. The fix should also include implementing proper access controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect suspicious upload activities, as recommended by security frameworks such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for web application security.