CVE-2007-1631 in CLBOX
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in signup.php in CLBOX 1.01 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the header parameter. NOTE: this issue has been disputed by a reliable third party, stating that header is defined through an include file before use.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1631 pertains to a remote file inclusion flaw discovered in CLBOX 1.01's signup.php script. This represents a critical security weakness that could potentially allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability specifically manifests through the header parameter which is processed in a manner that permits remote code execution. According to the initial description, attackers could exploit this by supplying a URL within the header parameter that would be included and executed by the vulnerable PHP application.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more specifically CWE-94, which addresses the execution of code from untrusted sources. This weakness stems from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user input before incorporating it into dynamic include operations. The flaw essentially allows attackers to inject malicious URLs that get processed through PHP's include mechanism, thereby executing unintended code on the target server. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the application layer and can be exploited without requiring authentication or elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to potentially compromise entire server infrastructures. When exploited successfully, attackers could gain unauthorized access to server resources, execute malicious commands, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. This type of vulnerability provides attackers with significant control over affected systems and could lead to data breaches, service disruption, and further lateral movement within compromised networks. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target vulnerable systems from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access or local network presence. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, which describes techniques used to exploit vulnerabilities in externally accessible applications.
The disputed nature of this vulnerability adds complexity to its assessment and remediation. A reliable third party has challenged the initial characterization, asserting that the header parameter is defined through an include file before use, which would theoretically prevent direct remote file inclusion. This dispute highlights the importance of thorough vulnerability analysis and the need for multiple perspectives when evaluating security weaknesses. However, even if the specific exploitation path described initially is disputed, the underlying architectural concern remains valid - improper handling of user input in include operations can still create security risks. Organizations should approach this vulnerability with caution, ensuring that any input validation and sanitization measures are robust and comprehensive. The disputed status does not negate the need for proper security controls, as similar vulnerabilities in other contexts could still pose significant threats to system integrity and data security.