CVE-2007-1105 in Extreme phpBB
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in functions.php in Extreme phpBB (aka phpBB Extreme) 3.0.1 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 • 08/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1105 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Extreme phpBB forum software version 3.0.1. This vulnerability specifically targets the functions.php file, which serves as a core component in the phpBB ecosystem and is responsible for various essential functions including path resolution and file inclusion operations. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations, creating an avenue for malicious exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of the phpbb_root_path parameter, which is designed to specify the root directory path for the phpBB installation. When an attacker crafts a malicious URL and injects it into this parameter, the application processes this input without sufficient validation, allowing the remote code execution payload to be included and executed within the context of the web server. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-88, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, commonly known as command injection or file inclusion vulnerabilities. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of proper input sanitization and parameter validation, where user-controllable data flows directly into critical system operations without adequate filtering or escaping mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server and potentially the underlying system. Successful exploitation allows malicious actors to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code, which can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive forum data, user credentials, and potentially use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the server, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. According to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to technique T1059.007 for remote code execution and T1566 for malicious file execution, highlighting the multi-layered attack vectors available to threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1105 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected Extreme phpBB version, as this represents the most effective and comprehensive solution to address the root cause. Organizations should implement proper input validation mechanisms that sanitize all user-supplied parameters before they are processed, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of a whitelist-based approach for path resolution, where only predefined and trusted paths are accepted, provides an additional layer of defense against such attacks. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block malicious requests targeting this vulnerability. Furthermore, system administrators should consider implementing proper access controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect unauthorized file uploads or modifications to critical system files. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and ensure that input validation mechanisms are consistently applied across all components of the web application stack. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper parameter validation in preventing remote code execution attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.