CVE-2007-1053 in phpXmms
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in phpXmms 1.0 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the tcmdp parameter to (1) phpxmmsb.php or (2) phpxmmst.php. NOTE: this issue has been disputed by a reliable third party, stating that the tcmdp variable is initialized by config.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1053 relates to multiple remote file inclusion flaws discovered in phpXmms version 1.0, a web-based music player interface that allows users to control multimedia playback through a web browser. This vulnerability classifies under CWE-88, which describes the condition where a program uses external input to construct a pathname that is intended to reference a file, but the input is not properly validated or sanitized. The specific flaw exists in the handling of the tcmdp parameter within two distinct script files: phpxmmsb.php and phpxmmst.php. These files are part of the phpXmms application that interfaces with XMMS (X MultiMedia System) for music playback control through web-based commands.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when remote attackers manipulate the tcmdp parameter to include malicious URLs that point to external PHP scripts. When the application processes these parameters without proper validation, it effectively includes and executes arbitrary PHP code from remote servers. This represents a classic remote code execution vulnerability that allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to the web server hosting the vulnerable application. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and unsafe dynamic code loading mechanisms that are commonly associated with insecure programming patterns. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows for complete server compromise when successful, enabling attackers to execute commands, access sensitive data, or establish persistent access to the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to full system compromise and data breaches within environments where phpXmms is deployed. Organizations using this application become vulnerable to various attack vectors including but not limited to web shell installation, data exfiltration, and privilege escalation. The vulnerability affects web applications that utilize dynamic inclusion of external resources without proper sanitization, making it a critical concern for any system administrators maintaining legacy web applications. The disputed nature of this vulnerability, as noted in the description, suggests that the third-party analysis indicates the tcmdp variable is initialized by config.php, which could potentially mitigate or eliminate the vulnerability depending on the specific implementation details and configuration practices. This discrepancy highlights the importance of thorough vulnerability assessment and the need for independent verification of security claims.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization practices for all user-supplied parameters. The recommended approach includes disabling remote file inclusion features, implementing strict parameter validation, and using allowlists for acceptable input values. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting this vulnerability. The remediation process requires updating the application to properly sanitize all user inputs, particularly parameters used in dynamic file inclusion operations. Additionally, following secure coding guidelines such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and the CERT/CC secure coding standards would help prevent similar vulnerabilities in future implementations. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and the potential consequences of insecure dynamic code loading mechanisms in web applications.