CVE-2007-0762 in phpBB++
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/functions.php in phpBB++ Build 100 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 • 08/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0762 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the phpBB++ content management system version 100. This security weakness exists within the includes/functions.php file and specifically targets the phpbb_root_path parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-98 category, which specifically addresses "Include File Injection" and represents a well-documented attack vector that has been prevalent in web application security for many years. The flaw enables attackers to leverage the remote file inclusion capability by manipulating the phpbb_root_path parameter to point to malicious remote resources, thereby bypassing normal access controls and executing unauthorized code within the target environment.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a malicious URL that gets passed through the phpbb_root_path parameter, which is then processed by the vulnerable includes/functions.php script. When the application attempts to include this parameter value as a file path, it inadvertently executes code from the remote location specified by the attacker. This process typically involves the use of PHP's include or require functions, which are designed to incorporate external files into the executing script. However, when these functions receive unvalidated input containing URLs or file paths, they become vectors for code execution. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it a severe threat to system integrity and data confidentiality. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a Remote Code Execution technique, specifically under the T1059.007 sub-technique related to PHP script execution, which demonstrates how attackers can leverage web application flaws to gain complete control over affected servers.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-0762 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Once exploited, attackers can establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks against other systems. The vulnerability affects not only the web application itself but also the underlying server infrastructure, potentially leading to complete system takeover. Organizations running vulnerable phpBB++ installations face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and regulatory compliance violations. The impact is particularly severe in environments where phpBB++ is used for critical applications such as forums, community portals, or content management systems that handle sensitive user data. Security professionals must consider that this vulnerability could be exploited as part of broader attack campaigns, where initial compromise leads to lateral movement within networks. The vulnerability's exploitation is relatively straightforward, requiring minimal technical expertise, which increases the likelihood of successful attacks and makes it a preferred target for both skilled and less experienced threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0762 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves upgrading to a patched version of phpBB++ that resolves the remote file inclusion vulnerability, as the original vendor has likely released security updates to address this specific flaw. Organizations should also implement input validation and sanitization measures that prevent user-supplied data from being used directly in file inclusion operations. This includes implementing strict parameter validation, using allowlists for acceptable file paths, and avoiding the use of user input in dynamic include statements. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Additionally, security hardening practices should be implemented, including disabling dangerous PHP functions like allow_url_include, restricting file permissions, and implementing proper access controls. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify other potential vulnerabilities within their web applications and infrastructure, as this particular flaw often indicates broader security weaknesses that may require additional remediation efforts. The remediation process should also include monitoring for signs of exploitation attempts and establishing incident response procedures to quickly address any potential compromise.