CVE-2007-1936 in ScarAdController
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in scaradcontrol.php in ScarAdControl (ScarAdController) 1.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the sac_config_dir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1936 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the ScarAdControl (ScarAdController) version 1.1 web application. This vulnerability exists in the scaradcontrol.php script and specifically targets the sac_config_dir parameter which is susceptible to manipulation by remote attackers. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an eval() context, and CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code, both of which are fundamental weaknesses in input validation and code execution mechanisms.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker supplies a malicious URL through the sac_config_dir parameter, which is then processed by the application without proper sanitization or validation. When the application attempts to include this remote file, it executes the malicious PHP code contained within, providing attackers with unauthorized access to the server's file system and execution capabilities. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables attackers to bypass traditional security measures and directly inject malicious code into the application's runtime environment. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate sanitization of user-supplied data, creating an attack surface that can be leveraged for privilege escalation, data exfiltration, and further network infiltration.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised system. Attackers can use this vulnerability to install backdoors, establish command and control channels, and perform reconnaissance activities within the network. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including web application scanners, manual exploitation, or automated attack frameworks that target known remote file inclusion patterns. This vulnerability also aligns with several techniques documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1190 category for Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables attackers to execute commands and scripts on the target system. The presence of this vulnerability in a production environment could result in data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations that may trigger regulatory penalties.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1936 should focus on immediate patching of the ScarAdControl application to the latest available version that addresses this vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization measures to prevent unauthorized file inclusion operations, particularly by disabling the ability to include remote files through user-supplied parameters. The application should be configured to use absolute paths for file inclusion operations and implement proper access controls to restrict file operations. Security measures should include disabling the php.ini settings that allow remote file inclusion, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious parameter values, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. Additionally, organizations should establish secure coding practices that emphasize parameter validation, input sanitization, and proper error handling to prevent similar issues in future development cycles. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date software, implementing defense-in-depth strategies, and following secure coding standards to prevent remote code execution vulnerabilities that could lead to complete system compromise.