CVE-2007-1118 in eFiction
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in eFiction 3.1.1 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the path_to_smf parameter to (1) bridges/SMF/logout.php or (2) get_session_vars.php.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1118 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting eFiction versions 3.1.1 and earlier. This issue resides within the application's handling of user-supplied input in the path_to_smf parameter, which is processed in two specific files: bridges/SMF/logout.php and get_session_vars.php. The flaw allows attackers to inject malicious URLs that are then executed as PHP code on the target server, creating a severe security risk for affected systems. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and CWE-94, which encompasses the execution of arbitrary code due to improper input validation. The attack vector operates through the exploitation of insufficient input sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly validate or escape user-provided URLs before incorporating them into server-side execution contexts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates how improper parameter validation can lead to remote code execution in web applications. When attackers provide malicious URLs through the path_to_smf parameter, the application fails to validate that these inputs originate from trusted sources or contain legitimate file paths. Instead, the application treats these inputs as legitimate file references and attempts to include them using PHP's include or require functions. This processing creates an execution environment where attacker-controlled code can be interpreted and executed with the privileges of the web server. The vulnerability specifically affects the application's bridge functionality that connects eFiction with SMF forums, making it particularly dangerous as it allows attackers to leverage the application's legitimate integration mechanisms for malicious purposes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, potentially enabling full system compromise through the exploitation of the remote file inclusion vulnerability. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload and execute malicious scripts, establish backdoors, or access sensitive system information. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous in web environments where applications are publicly accessible. According to ATT&CK framework categorization, this vulnerability aligns with T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP, representing a direct path for attackers to execute arbitrary commands through the web application interface. The affected eFiction versions, being outdated software, likely lack modern security mitigations such as input validation libraries, secure coding practices, or runtime protections that would prevent such exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1118 require immediate action to address the root cause through proper input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement strict parameter validation that rejects any non-absolute paths or URLs that do not originate from trusted sources. The recommended approach involves using allowlists for valid parameters and implementing proper input sanitization techniques to prevent URL injection attacks. Security measures should include disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious URL patterns, and ensuring that all web applications are regularly updated to receive security patches. Additionally, developers should adopt secure coding practices that enforce proper input validation, utilize parameterized queries where applicable, and implement defense-in-depth strategies including proper access controls and monitoring of application logs for suspicious activities. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing automated vulnerability scanning to identify and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited by malicious actors.