CVE-2007-2049 in Mambo Calendar
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in the Calendar Module (com_calendar) 1.5.5 for Mambo allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the absolute_path parameter to (1) com_calendar.php or (2) mod_calendar.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2049 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the Calendar Module component of Mambo CMS version 1.5.5. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation mechanisms that fail to sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into PHP execution contexts. The flaw specifically affects two key files within the com_calendar module: com_calendar.php and mod_calendar.php, both of which accept an absolute_path parameter that can be manipulated by remote attackers to inject malicious code.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a remote file inclusion attack vector that leverages the insecure handling of the absolute_path parameter. When a remote attacker provides a malicious URL as the value for this parameter, the vulnerable code fails to validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This creates an opportunity for attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, effectively allowing them to gain unauthorized access to the system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1190 for "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter."
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, potentially enabling attackers to completely compromise the affected web server. Successful exploitation allows unauthorized individuals to execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process, which typically has access to the web root directory and potentially database credentials. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, deface websites, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks against the internal network. The vulnerability affects the entire Mambo CMS ecosystem and could potentially impact multiple websites running the vulnerable module version, making it a particularly dangerous flaw for organizations relying on this content management system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2049 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected Mambo CMS installation to the latest version that addresses this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement input validation measures at the application level to prevent unsanitized user input from being processed in file inclusion contexts. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious URL patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that web server processes operate with minimal required permissions and that file inclusion operations are restricted to predefined, trusted directories. Security hardening measures should include disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in PHP configuration and implementing proper access controls for administrative interfaces to prevent unauthorized modifications to vulnerable components.