CVE-2007-0797 in SMA-DB
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in theme/settings.php in bluevirus-design SMA-DB 0.3.9 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the pfad_z parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0797 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the bluevirus-design SMA-DB content management system version 0.3.9 and earlier. This vulnerability resides within the theme/settings.php file and specifically targets the pfad_z parameter, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected system. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, particularly in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters, allowing malicious actors to inject URLs that are then processed by the application without proper security checks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the pfad_z parameter in the HTTP request. The application fails to validate or sanitize this input before including it in the PHP execution context, effectively allowing the attacker to load and execute remote PHP code from an external server. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1190, which covers Exploit Public-Facing Application, and specifically relates to the use of remote file inclusion as a code execution vector. The vulnerability's impact is severe as it allows for complete system compromise, enabling attackers to execute commands, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the affected environment.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations using the affected SMA-DB version, as it provides attackers with a straightforward path to gain unauthorized access to the web server. The vulnerability can be exploited without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous in publicly accessible web applications. Successful exploitation could result in data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms, as attackers can upload additional malicious components or modify existing application files. Organizations running this vulnerable software are at risk of having their web applications compromised, potentially leading to complete server takeover and data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate patching and input validation improvements. The most effective solution involves upgrading to a non-vulnerable version of the SMA-DB software where the pfad_z parameter is properly validated and sanitized. In the interim, administrators should implement input validation measures that reject any URLs containing suspicious patterns or external references. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Additionally, applying the principle of least privilege by restricting file inclusion capabilities and ensuring proper parameter validation within the application code will significantly reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also conduct thorough security assessments of their web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and implement proper input sanitization techniques to prevent similar issues from occurring in other parts of their software ecosystem.