CVE-2007-1369 in Zend Platform
Summary
by MITRE
ini_modifier (sgid-zendtech) in Zend Platform 2.2.3 and earlier allows local users to modify the system php.ini file by editing a copy of php.ini file using the -f parameter, and then performing a symlink attack using the directory that contains the attacker-controlled php.ini file, and linking this directory to /usr/local/Zend/etc.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/18/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1369 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within Zend Platform 2.2.3 and earlier versions that stems from improper handling of configuration file modifications. This issue specifically affects the ini_modifier component of the Zend Platform, which is designed to manage PHP configuration settings but fails to properly validate file operations during the modification process. The vulnerability arises from the platform's insecure use of symbolic links and directory traversal mechanisms, creating a pathway for local attackers to manipulate system-wide PHP configuration settings through a carefully crafted attack vector.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves a multi-step process that leverages both file system permissions and symbolic link manipulation. Attackers begin by creating a malicious copy of the php.ini file in a directory they control, then utilize the -f parameter to reference this attacker-controlled configuration file. The critical flaw occurs when the system processes this configuration file through the ini_modifier function, which fails to properly validate the file path and directory structure. The attack specifically targets the directory containing the attacker-controlled php.ini file and creates a symbolic link that points to the system's critical configuration directory at /usr/local/Zend/etc, effectively allowing the attacker to overwrite or modify the system php.ini file with malicious settings.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and CWE-276 (Incorrect Permission Assignment), as it demonstrates both inadequate path validation and improper file system permission handling. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple configuration modification, as attackers can potentially alter PHP's security settings, disable security features, modify extension loading paths, or redirect PHP's behavior in ways that could facilitate further attacks. The attack requires local system access but provides privilege escalation capabilities that could allow an attacker to gain elevated privileges or modify system configuration in ways that persist across reboots and system operations.
The security implications of this vulnerability are particularly severe in environments where Zend Platform is used for web application hosting, as the modified php.ini settings could enable attackers to bypass security controls, load malicious PHP extensions, or alter PHP's behavior to execute arbitrary code. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 (Local Port Forwarding) and T1548.001 (Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism) as it exploits local system weaknesses to gain elevated privileges through configuration file manipulation. Organizations using affected versions of Zend Platform should immediately implement mitigations including updating to patched versions, restricting file system permissions for configuration directories, and monitoring for unauthorized symbolic link creation in system directories. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure file handling practices in enterprise software platforms, particularly those that manage critical system configuration files.