CVE-2007-1153 in CuteNews
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in CutePHP CuteNews 1.3.6 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via unspecified vectors. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information. NOTE: issue might overlap CVE-2004-1660 or CVE-2006-4445.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/21/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1153 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within CutePHP CuteNews version 1.3.6, specifically targeting PHP applications that utilize remote file inclusion mechanisms. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on affected systems. The flaw manifests through unspecified vectors within the CuteNews application's file handling processes, allowing attackers to leverage the application's trust in user-supplied input to bypass security controls and gain unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental principle of PHP's include and require functions, which can be manipulated to load remote files from attacker-controlled servers. When CuteNews processes user input that is subsequently used in file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or validation, it creates an environment where malicious code can be executed with the privileges of the web application. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-98 and CWE-20, representing improper input validation and remote file inclusion respectively, both of which are classified as high-risk issues in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. The attack vector typically involves crafting malicious URLs or parameters that cause the application to include remote files containing malicious PHP code, effectively turning the vulnerable application into a backdoor for remote attackers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Once exploited, adversaries can establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in web-facing environments. Organizations running CuteNews 1.3.6 are at significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations, especially when considering that this vulnerability predates many modern security controls and detection mechanisms. The overlap with CVE-2004-1660 and CVE-2006-4445 suggests this represents a recurring pattern of insecure file handling practices in legacy PHP applications, highlighting the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, indicating that it represents a common attack path for adversaries seeking to compromise web applications and establish footholds within target environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1153 must focus on immediate patching and application hardening measures, as the vulnerability represents an unpatched legacy flaw that continues to pose risks in environments where outdated software persists. Organizations should implement strict input validation mechanisms, disable remote file inclusion capabilities within PHP configurations, and establish robust web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests. The recommended approach includes upgrading to patched versions of CuteNews, implementing proper parameter sanitization, and conducting comprehensive security audits of all web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring controls should be deployed to detect anomalous file inclusion patterns and prevent exploitation attempts from reaching vulnerable systems. Security teams must also consider the broader implications of running legacy applications and develop comprehensive retirement strategies for outdated software components that lack proper security updates and support.