CVE-2007-0656 in phpBB2-MODificat
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/functions.php in phpBB2-MODificat 0.2.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the phpbb_root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0656 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the phpBB2-MODificat 0.2.0 software ecosystem, specifically affecting versions prior to 0.2.0. This issue resides within the includes/functions.php file where improper input validation allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the phpbb_root_path parameter. The flaw enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system, fundamentally compromising the application's security posture and potentially leading to full system compromise.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-88, known as "Argument Injection or Modification," and specifically manifests as a remote code execution vector through insecure parameter handling. The root cause stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize or validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into critical system operations. When the phpbb_root_path parameter is manipulated with a malicious URL, the application attempts to include and execute remote PHP code, bypassing normal security boundaries and access controls. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and the absence of proper sanitization mechanisms that should prevent external URL inclusion in critical application paths.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-0656 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a pathway to establish persistent access to affected systems. Successful exploitation allows adversaries to upload and execute malicious payloads, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of backdoors. The vulnerability affects web applications built on the phpBB2 framework, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple forums or bulletin board systems are deployed. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain unauthorized access to sensitive user data, modify forum content, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of affected systems to version 0.2.0 or later, which should contain proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict input validation for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations, and employ proper parameter sanitization techniques to prevent URL injection attacks. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and implementing proper access controls for file inclusion operations will significantly reduce the risk of similar vulnerabilities. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, emphasizing the need for proper application hardening and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation of such remote code execution vulnerabilities.