CVE-2007-1376 in PHP
Summary
by MITRE
The shmop functions in PHP before 4.4.5, and before 5.2.1 in the 5.x series, do not verify that their arguments correspond to a shmop resource, which allows context-dependent attackers to read and write arbitrary memory locations via arguments associated with an inappropriate resource, as demonstrated by a GD Image resource.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1376 represents a critical memory corruption issue affecting PHP's shared memory operations functions. This flaw exists in PHP versions prior to 4.4.5 and 5.2.1 within the 5.x series, where the shmop functions lack proper argument validation mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from insufficient type checking and resource validation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit improper resource handling within the PHP runtime environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the shmop functions which are designed to provide shared memory operations in PHP applications. These functions normally accept specific resource types as arguments, but due to the missing validation checks, attackers can pass inappropriate resource types such as GD Image resources instead of proper shmop resources. This type confusion allows attackers to manipulate memory addresses through crafted input parameters, enabling arbitrary read and write operations at memory locations controlled by the attacker. The flaw operates at the level of the PHP interpreter's resource management system, where resource type checking is bypassed during function execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution within the context of the PHP process. When combined with other exploitation techniques, this vulnerability can allow attackers to read sensitive memory contents, modify program execution flow, or potentially escalate privileges. The context-dependent nature of the attack means that successful exploitation requires specific conditions, including the presence of GD Image resources and the ability to influence the PHP application's resource handling. This vulnerability particularly affects web applications that utilize both shared memory operations and image processing functionalities, creating a dangerous intersection of capabilities for malicious actors.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-843, which specifically addresses "Access of Resource Using Incompatible Type," and demonstrates characteristics consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The lack of proper input validation and resource type checking creates a fundamental weakness in PHP's security model that can be leveraged for memory corruption attacks. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to patched PHP versions, implementing proper resource validation in application code, and conducting security reviews of shared memory operations within their PHP applications. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input sanitization and resource management practices in preventing similar issues in other programming environments.