CVE-2007-1992 in Com Zoom
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in the com_zoom 2.5 beta 2 and earlier module for Mambo allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter to (1) EXIF_Makernote.php or (2) EXIF.php in classes/iptc/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-1992 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw that affects the com_zoom module for Mambo content management system versions 2.5 beta 2 and earlier. This vulnerability resides within the image processing functionality of the module, specifically in the handling of EXIF data extraction. The flaw allows attackers to inject malicious URLs into the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, which then gets processed by the vulnerable PHP scripts EXIF_Makernote.php and EXIF.php located in the classes/iptc/ directory. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code due to improper input validation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the vulnerable PHP application processes image files containing EXIF metadata that includes malicious URLs. When the com_zoom module attempts to parse this metadata, it accepts the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter without proper validation or sanitization. This parameter is then used to construct file paths or URLs that are subsequently included or executed by the PHP interpreter. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through image uploads, making it difficult to detect and prevent. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and proper sanitization of user-supplied data, which is a fundamental security principle that should be enforced at all input points.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for any system running affected versions of Mambo with the vulnerable com_zoom module. Attackers can execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data theft, or server takeover. This vulnerability can be exploited to install backdoors, modify website content, steal sensitive information, or use the compromised server for further attacks. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not need physical access to the system and can target vulnerable installations from anywhere on the internet. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services, and T1059, which covers execution of commands through scripting languages.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate solution is to upgrade to a patched version of Mambo or apply the vendor-supplied security patches that address the specific file inclusion vulnerability. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, particularly for parameters that are used in file inclusion operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that PHP applications do not have unnecessary file inclusion capabilities. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other components of the web application stack, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper parameter validation in all user-facing interfaces.