CVE-2007-1976 in Xoops Virii Info Module
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in the Virii Info 1.10 and earlier module for Xoops allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the xoopsConfig[root_path] parameter. NOTE: the issue has been disputed by a reliable third party, stating that the application s checkSuperglobals function defends against the attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1976 pertains to a remote file inclusion flaw discovered in the Virii Info module for Xoops version 1.10 and earlier. This represents a critical security weakness that could potentially allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability specifically affects the index.php file within the module, where the xoopsConfig[root_path] parameter is processed without adequate validation. According to the initial vulnerability report, attackers could exploit this weakness by injecting a malicious URL into the root_path parameter, thereby enabling remote code execution through the PHP interpreter. The flaw demonstrates a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability that falls under the broader category of insecure parameter handling in web applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the module's configuration handling mechanism. When the xoopsConfig[root_path] parameter is processed, the application fails to sanitize or validate the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This allows an attacker to manipulate the parameter value to point to external malicious resources, effectively bypassing normal security controls. The vulnerability operates at the application layer where PHP's include or require functions are used with user-controllable input, creating an execution path that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution. This type of flaw aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code due to improper input handling in interpreted languages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to potentially compromise entire web server environments. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to upload malicious files, escalate privileges, or establish persistent backdoors within the affected systems. The vulnerability affects Xoops installations that utilize the Virii Info module, creating a significant risk for websites that rely on this particular module for functionality. Attackers could leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks against internal networks. This vulnerability particularly impacts web applications that do not properly validate user input before using it in dynamic file operations, making it a common target for automated exploitation tools and manual attack campaigns.
The disputed nature of this vulnerability arises from a third-party assessment indicating that the application's checkSuperglobals function provides adequate defense against the attack vector described in the original report. This defense mechanism suggests that the application implements checks to validate superglobal variables before they are used in file inclusion operations. However, the validity of this defense depends on proper implementation and configuration of the checkSuperglobals function, which may not always be correctly deployed in all installations. The dispute highlights the complexity of vulnerability assessment and the importance of understanding the complete attack surface of web applications. Organizations should carefully evaluate whether their specific implementations of the Virii Info module actually utilize the defensive mechanisms described and verify that these protections are properly configured and functioning as intended. The situation underscores the need for comprehensive security testing and validation of defensive controls, as outlined in the attack mitigation strategies defined by the attack framework.