CVE-2007-1414 in Coppermine Photo Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Coppermine Photo Gallery (CPG) allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) cmd parameter to (a) image_processor.php or (b) picmgmt.inc.php, or the (2) path parameter to (c) include/functions.php, (d) include/plugin_api.inc.php, (e) index.php, or (f) pluginmgr.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/10/2022
The CVE-2007-1414 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting the Coppermine Photo Gallery (CPG) platform, which was widely used for managing and displaying photo galleries on websites. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The flaw exists due to the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input parameters before using them in file inclusion operations, making it susceptible to exploitation through maliciously crafted URLs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through multiple entry points within the Coppermine Photo Gallery codebase, specifically targeting four distinct PHP files that handle file inclusion operations. Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by manipulating the cmd parameter in image_processor.php and picmgmt.inc.php, or by controlling the path parameter in functions.php, plugin_api.inc.php, index.php, and pluginmgr.php. These parameters are directly incorporated into include or require statements without proper sanitization, allowing attackers to specify arbitrary URLs that will be executed on the target server. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution (RCE) flaw that enables attackers to inject and execute malicious PHP code remotely.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1414 is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with complete control over affected systems. Successful exploitation can result in unauthorized access to server resources, data theft, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the photo gallery application, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to establish persistent access to web servers. Organizations running vulnerable versions of Coppermine Photo Gallery face significant security risks, including potential data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations, particularly in environments where these applications are used to host sensitive user content.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1414 should focus on immediate patching and input validation improvements. System administrators must upgrade to patched versions of Coppermine Photo Gallery that address these vulnerabilities through proper parameter sanitization and input validation. The recommended approach includes implementing strict input validation for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations, and employing a whitelist-based approach to parameter handling. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls, disabling remote file inclusion features, and applying proper access controls to limit exposure. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-94 (Improper Control of Generation of Code) and follows ATT&CK techniques related to command and control through web shell deployment and remote code execution. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments of their web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and establish robust security monitoring procedures to detect and respond to exploitation attempts.