CVE-2007-1633 in Splatt Forum
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in bbcode_ref.php in the Giorgio Ciranni Splatt Forum 4.0 RC1 module for PHP-Nuke allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the name parameter, as demonstrated by injecting PHP sequences into an Apache HTTP Server log file, which is then included by bbcode_ref.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1633 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the Giorgio Ciranni Splatt Forum 4.0 RC1 module for PHP-Nuke. This security weakness resides in the bbcode_ref.php component which fails to properly validate user input parameters, specifically the name parameter that controls file inclusion operations. The flaw enables remote attackers to manipulate file paths through the use of .. (dot dot) sequences, effectively bypassing normal file access restrictions and gaining unauthorized access to local files on the web server. The vulnerability operates by exploiting insufficient input sanitization mechanisms that should prevent malicious path traversal attempts.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a sophisticated attack pattern that leverages the interaction between the forum module and web server logging mechanisms. Attackers can inject PHP code sequences into Apache HTTP Server log files through malicious user input or exploitation of other vulnerabilities within the web application. When the bbcode_ref.php script processes the name parameter containing directory traversal sequences, it includes and executes the malicious PHP code embedded within the log file. This creates a persistent execution channel that allows attackers to run arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Since the attack chain involves manipulation of Apache log files, attackers can maintain persistent access to the compromised system through log file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected web application and underlying server infrastructure. Organizations running PHP-Nuke installations with the Splatt Forum module are particularly at risk, as the attack can be executed remotely without authentication requirements. This makes the vulnerability especially dangerous for public-facing web applications where the attacker can exploit the flaw from external networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1633 require immediate implementation of input validation controls and proper file inclusion practices within the affected application. The primary remediation involves implementing strict parameter validation within bbcode_ref.php to reject any input containing directory traversal sequences such as .. or %2e%2e. Security controls should enforce absolute path restrictions and implement proper file access controls that prevent inclusion of arbitrary local files. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious file inclusion patterns. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 directory traversal weakness and maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1505.003 for server-side include attacks. Regular security audits and code reviews should focus on file inclusion functions to prevent similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack.
The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input sanitization and the dangerous consequences of insecure file handling in web applications. Legacy PHP-Nuke installations with vulnerable modules represent significant security risks that require immediate attention and remediation. Organizations should prioritize patching affected systems and implementing comprehensive security monitoring to detect exploitation attempts. The attack vector highlights the need for layered security approaches that protect against both direct application vulnerabilities and indirect exploitation paths through system components like log files.