CVE-2007-1247 in aWebNews
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in aWeb Labs aWebNews 1.5 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the path_to_news parameter to (1) listing.php or (2) visview.php.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1247 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the aWebNews 1.5 content management system developed by aWeb Labs. This vulnerability exists within the application's handling of user-supplied input parameters, specifically the path_to_news parameter that is processed in two distinct script files: listing.php and visview.php. The flaw enables remote attackers to inject malicious URLs that are then executed as PHP code on the target server, creating a severe security risk that can be exploited without authentication or user interaction.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the aWebNews application. When users provide the path_to_news parameter, the application fails to adequately validate or sanitize the input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. This weakness allows attackers to inject URLs pointing to remote malicious servers, effectively bypassing local file access controls and enabling arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is classified as a remote file inclusion (RFI) issue, which is categorized under CWE-88 in the Common Weakness Enumeration system, specifically addressing improper validation of input that leads to inclusion of files from untrusted sources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial and potentially devastating for affected systems. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, which may result in complete system compromise, data theft, or server infiltration. The vulnerability can be exploited to upload and execute malicious payloads, establish backdoors, or perform further attacks against internal network resources. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability provides a direct pathway to gain unauthorized access and control over the affected web server, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools and malicious actors seeking to compromise web applications.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, where it maps to the technique T1059.007 for execution through PHP and T1190 for exploitation of remote file inclusion vulnerabilities. The remediation strategy involves immediate patching of the aWebNews application to version 1.6 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for input validation. Additionally, administrators should implement proper input sanitization measures, including the use of allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives set to off in php.ini configuration files, and implement proper parameter validation to prevent injection of malicious URLs. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should also be configured to monitor for suspicious URL patterns and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure coding practices and input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks that can lead to complete system compromise.