CVE-2007-1839 in CodeBB
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in CodeBB 1.1b3 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the phpbb_root_path parameter to (1) pass_code.php or (2) lang_select.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1839 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting CodeBB versions 1.1b3 and earlier. This issue stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the application's handling of user-supplied parameters, specifically the phpbb_root_path parameter. The vulnerability allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the application's execution flow, potentially enabling remote code execution on the affected server. Such flaws are particularly dangerous because they can be exploited without authentication, making them attractive targets for automated attacks and compromising entire web applications.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through two primary entry points within the CodeBB application. The first vector involves the pass_code.php file where the phpbb_root_path parameter is improperly sanitized, while the second vector targets the lang_select component with identical security weaknesses. These flaws align with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically with CWE-94, which covers the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The vulnerability essentially allows attackers to manipulate the application's include path functionality, enabling them to load and execute malicious PHP scripts hosted on remote servers. This type of vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability under the ATT&CK framework's T1190 technique, which involves the exploitation of remote services to execute arbitrary code.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1839 is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to gain complete control over affected web servers. Successful exploitation could result in data breaches, server compromise, and the installation of backdoors or additional malware. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system. Organizations running affected versions of CodeBB face significant risk of being compromised, with potential consequences including unauthorized data access, service disruption, and regulatory compliance violations. The impact extends beyond immediate exploitation as compromised servers often become part of larger attack infrastructure used for further infiltration activities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to a patched version of CodeBB that properly validates and sanitizes the phpbb_root_path parameter. Organizations should implement input validation measures that reject or escape special characters in user-supplied URLs, particularly those that could be used to manipulate file inclusion paths. The implementation of secure coding practices including the use of allowlists for valid paths and proper parameter validation should be enforced throughout the application. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Security teams should also conduct regular vulnerability assessments and maintain updated threat intelligence to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The ATT&CK framework's T1068 technique emphasizes the importance of protecting against local privilege escalation and remote code execution, making proper input validation and parameter sanitization essential defensive measures that align with industry best practices for secure software development.