CVE-2007-1639 in PHPprojekt
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in PHProjekt 5.2.0, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote authenticated users to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code via a file with an executable extension, which is then accessed by the (1) calendar or (2) file management module, or possibly unspecified other files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/20/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1639 represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in PHProjekt version 5.2.0 that fundamentally compromises the security posture of affected systems. This issue arises specifically when the PHP configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, creating a dangerous condition where user inputs are not properly sanitized before being processed. The vulnerability affects multiple modules within the application including the calendar and file management components, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple attack vectors for malicious actors to exploit.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the PHProjekt application. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the application fails to properly validate file extensions and content types during upload processes, allowing authenticated users to bypass security controls. Attackers can upload malicious PHP files with executable extensions such as .php, .php3, .php4, or .php5, which can then be executed on the server when accessed through the vulnerable modules. This represents a classic case of improper input validation that falls under CWE-434, which specifically addresses the improper restriction of uploads of executable code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables remote code execution capabilities that can lead to complete system compromise. Once an attacker successfully uploads malicious code, they can execute arbitrary commands on the web server, potentially gaining full administrative control over the affected system. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that an attacker who can obtain legitimate user credentials can exploit this flaw without requiring additional privileges. The attack surface extends beyond just the calendar and file management modules, as the description indicates that unspecified other files may also be vulnerable, suggesting a broader application-level flaw in the upload handling mechanism.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1190 for exploit public-facing application and T1059 for command and script injection. The flaw demonstrates poor secure coding practices and highlights the critical importance of proper input validation and file type restrictions in web applications. Organizations utilizing PHProjekt 5.2.0 or similar applications must implement immediate mitigations including disabling file upload capabilities for non-administrative users, implementing strict file type validation, and ensuring that magic_quotes_gpc is properly configured. Additionally, the vulnerability underscores the importance of keeping web applications updated and following security best practices such as the principle of least privilege and proper access controls. The remediation process should include comprehensive code review to identify similar patterns throughout the application and implementation of robust file upload validation mechanisms that prevent execution of uploaded files in web-accessible directories.