CVE-2007-0850 in SysCP
Summary
by MITRE
scripts/cronscript.php in SysCP 1.2.15 and earlier includes and executes arbitrary PHP scripts that are referenced by the panel_cronscript table in the SysCP database, which allows attackers with database write privileges to execute arbitrary code by constructing a PHP file and adding its filename to this table.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0850 resides within the SysCP control panel software version 1.2.15 and earlier, presenting a critical security risk that stems from improper input validation and privilege escalation. This flaw specifically affects the scripts/cronscript.php component which serves as a gateway for executing scheduled tasks within the system. The vulnerability manifests when the application dynamically includes and executes PHP scripts based on entries stored in the panel_cronscript database table, creating an environment where malicious actors can manipulate the execution flow through database modifications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic path of privilege-based code execution where database write access translates directly into remote code execution capabilities. When an attacker possesses the ability to modify database records, they can craft malicious PHP files and register their filenames within the panel_cronscript table, effectively bypassing normal execution controls. The system's trust in database entries without proper validation creates an attack surface that allows arbitrary code injection through the cron script execution mechanism. This design flaw aligns with CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code" and represents a clear case of code injection vulnerability where user-controllable data directly influences executable code paths.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to gain full control over the affected system. Once successfully exploited, malicious actors can execute any PHP code they choose, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The attack vector requires only database write privileges, which can be obtained through various means including SQL injection attacks, credential compromise, or other database-related vulnerabilities. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by attackers who may not have direct system access but can manipulate database contents through legitimate administrative functions or compromised database accounts.
The exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the principle of least privilege and input validation within the SysCP application architecture. The system's design assumes that database entries are trustworthy without implementing proper sanitization or validation mechanisms before script execution. This oversight creates a dangerous trust relationship between database content and executable code, violating core security principles. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability represents a classic example of how database-driven execution flows can become attack vectors when proper input validation and privilege controls are absent. The attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers "Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python" but can be adapted to describe PHP script execution through database manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-0850 should focus on immediate patching of the SysCP software to version 1.2.16 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement strict database access controls, ensuring that only authorized users have write privileges to the panel_cronscript table. Additional defensive measures include implementing database query auditing, restricting file system permissions for cron script directories, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor for suspicious database modification patterns. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of regular security assessments and the implementation of proper input validation mechanisms before executing any code that originates from database entries. System administrators should conduct thorough access reviews to ensure that database accounts used by the application have minimal required privileges and that all database modifications are logged and monitored for unauthorized changes.