CVE-2007-2189 in Full Album Pack
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in admin/admin_album_otf.php in the MX Smartor Full Album Pack (FAP) 2.0 RC1 module for mxBB allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the phpbb_root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2189 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the MX Smartor Full Album Pack (FAP) 2.0 RC1 module for mxBB bulletin board systems. This security weakness exists in the admin/admin_album_otf.php file and demonstrates a classic path traversal vulnerability that enables malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability specifically affects the phpbb_root_path parameter which is improperly validated and sanitized, creating an avenue for attackers to manipulate the application's file inclusion mechanisms. The flaw stems from the module's failure to properly validate user input before using it in file inclusion operations, directly violating fundamental security principles of input validation and secure coding practices.
This vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-98, which describes improper input validation leading to remote file inclusion attacks. The attack vector involves an attacker constructing a malicious URL and passing it through the phpbb_root_path parameter to the vulnerable script. When the application processes this parameter without adequate sanitization, it attempts to include the remote file specified in the URL, effectively executing any PHP code contained within that remote resource. The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability exists in the context of web applications that utilize dynamic file inclusion mechanisms without proper input validation, making it particularly dangerous in environments where the application runs with elevated privileges.
The attack scenario begins with an attacker identifying the vulnerable mxBB installation and locating the specific module path admin/admin_album_otf.php. Through careful reconnaissance, the attacker constructs a malicious payload that includes a remote URL in the phpbb_root_path parameter, typically pointing to a server controlled by the attacker. When the vulnerable application processes this request, it attempts to include the remote file, executing any PHP code contained within it. This execution can result in various malicious outcomes including shell access, database compromise, or further propagation within the network. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it does not require authentication and can be exploited remotely, making it an attractive target for automated attacks and exploit kits. The attack aligns with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for executing malicious code through web shells and remote code execution vectors.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected mxBB module to version 2.0 RC2 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes to prevent unauthorized file inclusion. System administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization procedures, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters are rigorously checked before being used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify other potential vulnerabilities in their mxBB installations and related modules. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and following secure coding practices that prevent improper input handling and file inclusion operations. Regular security audits and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to proactively identify and remediate similar weaknesses in web applications. The fix for this vulnerability demonstrates the critical need for proper parameter validation and the avoidance of dynamic file inclusion without adequate security controls, aligning with industry best practices for preventing remote code execution attacks in web applications.