CVE-2007-1702 in flatmenu
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in mod_flatmenu.php in the Flatmenu 1.07 and earlier Mambo module allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/31/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1702 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Flatmenu module for Mambo content management system versions 1.07 and earlier. This vulnerability resides in the mod_flatmenu.php file and specifically targets the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, which serves as an entry point for malicious attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on affected systems. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied data before using it in file inclusion operations.
This vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration classification of CWE-88, which describes weaknesses related to improper handling of command line arguments or similar input data that can lead to injection attacks. The attack vector leverages the inherent trust placed in configuration parameters within the Mambo framework, where the mosConfig_absolute_path variable is expected to contain a legitimate absolute path but can instead be manipulated to point to malicious remote resources. The vulnerability aligns with the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, specifically targeting the exploitation of remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process. This typically results in complete system compromise, enabling attackers to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy additional malicious payloads. The vulnerability affects not only the targeted web application but can also serve as a foothold for lateral movement within network environments, particularly when the web server has access to internal resources or databases. Organizations running vulnerable versions of Mambo are at significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1702 require immediate action including the mandatory upgrade to Mambo versions that contain patches addressing this vulnerability, as the original software developers released fixes specifically targeting the remote file inclusion flaw. System administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, particularly for parameters that are used in file inclusion operations, and disable the problematic module if immediate upgrades are not feasible. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and filtering suspicious requests containing malicious file inclusion patterns. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs to identify and remediate similar issues before they can be exploited by malicious actors in the wild.