CVE-2007-1516 in CcMail
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in functions/update.php in Cicoandcico CcMail 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the functions_dir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2024
The CVE-2007-1516 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Cicoandcico CcMail 1.0 email management system that fundamentally compromises the security posture of affected installations. This vulnerability resides within the functions/update.php file and specifically targets the functions_dir parameter, creating an attack vector that allows remote threat actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and sanitization that has been consistently identified as a primary weakness in web application security models.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a remote file inclusion attack pattern that aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of argument delimiters in a command or query. Attackers can manipulate the functions_dir parameter by providing a malicious URL that points to a remote PHP script hosted on an attacker-controlled server. When the vulnerable application processes this parameter without proper validation, it effectively includes and executes the remote code within the context of the web server, potentially granting full control over the affected system. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw places it within the high-risk category of security vulnerabilities that can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1516 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system takeover capabilities that align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script injection. Once exploited, attackers can establish persistent access through backdoor installations, escalate privileges, and move laterally within network environments. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the targeted email system, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized access to email communications, and service disruption. Organizations running Cicoandcico CcMail 1.0 are particularly vulnerable because the flaw exists in core application functionality, making it difficult to isolate or remediate without complete system patching.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security architecture improvements. The primary solution involves applying the vendor-provided patch or upgrading to a non-vulnerable version of the Cicoandcico CcMail software, which should be prioritized as a critical security update. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures can prevent similar vulnerabilities in other applications by ensuring that all user-supplied parameters are thoroughly validated before processing. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional protection layers, while security monitoring should include detection of suspicious URL patterns and remote file inclusion attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and input validation, particularly when dealing with dynamic code execution scenarios that are common in PHP-based web applications.