CVE-2007-0809 in mod-CH
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/class_template.php in Categories hierarchy (aka CH or mod-CH) 2.1.2 in ptirhiikmods 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 • 08/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0809 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Categories hierarchy (CH or mod-CH) 2.1.2 module for phpBB. This security weakness exists in the includes/class_template.php file and specifically targets the phpbb_root_path parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices, allowing attackers to inject malicious URLs that are then processed by the application without proper security checks.
This vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-98, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically falls within the broader CWE-80, "Improper Neutralization of Script-Related HTML Tags in a Web Page." The attack vector leverages the inherent trust placed in the phpbb_root_path parameter, which should normally contain local filesystem paths but can be manipulated to reference remote URLs. When the application processes this parameter without proper validation, it effectively downloads and executes remote code, providing attackers with a direct pathway to compromise the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to gain full control over the compromised web server. Through the execution of arbitrary PHP code, malicious actors can establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify database contents, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate application but can also potentially lead to privilege escalation and lateral movement within the target environment. According to MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP," demonstrating how attackers can leverage this flaw to execute malicious commands and maintain persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0809 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability. The most effective approach involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those that are used to construct file paths or URLs. Administrators should disable the ability to pass external URLs through the phpbb_root_path parameter and instead enforce the use of absolute local filesystem paths only. Additionally, the application should implement proper parameter validation that checks for malicious URL patterns and rejects any input containing remote resource references. Security hardening measures should include disabling remote file inclusion features, implementing web application firewalls, and ensuring that all phpBB installations are updated to the latest secure versions. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of input validation as a fundamental security control, aligning with NIST SP 800-160 and OWASP Top Ten security practices that emphasize protecting against injection flaws and maintaining secure coding standards throughout the development lifecycle.