CVE-2007-2076 in Maian
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in Maian Gallery 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the path_to_folder parameter. NOTE: this issue was disputed by a third party researcher, but confirmed by the vendor, stating "this problem existed only briefly in v1.0."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2076 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in Maian Gallery version 1.0 that exposes the application to arbitrary code execution attacks. This issue resides within the index.php script where the path_to_folder parameter is improperly handled, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to inject and execute unauthorized PHP code on the target system. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-88, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and falls within the broader category of CWE-94, representing arbitrary code execution through insecure input handling.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the path_to_folder parameter to include a malicious URL that points to remote code. When the vulnerable application processes this parameter without proper validation or sanitization, it incorporates the external content into the execution context, effectively allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary PHP commands on the server. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can enable attackers to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, or completely compromise the target system. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this under T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate code execution capabilities to encompass potential data breaches, system compromise, and service disruption. Organizations running Maian Gallery 1.0 are at significant risk of unauthorized access and data exfiltration, particularly when the application is deployed in production environments without proper patching or mitigation strategies. The vulnerability's brief existence in version 1.0 as confirmed by the vendor suggests that it was likely patched in subsequent releases, but legacy systems or improperly updated installations may still remain vulnerable. This highlights the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing proper input validation measures.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected Maian Gallery version, implementing strict input validation for all user-supplied parameters, and employing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious URL patterns. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls, regular security assessments, and monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices, particularly in handling user input parameters that are later used in file operations or dynamic code execution contexts. Proper sanitization of input parameters and avoidance of direct user input in file path constructions are essential defensive measures against similar remote file inclusion vulnerabilities.