CVE-2007-2204 in GPL PHP Board
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in GPL PHP Board (GPB) unstable-2001.11.14-1 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the root_path parameter to (1) db.mysql.inc.php or (2) gpb.inc.php in include/, or the (3) theme parameter to themes/ubb/login.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2204 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting GPL PHP Board versions dating back to unstable-2001.11.14-1. This issue stems from inadequate input validation within the application's include mechanism, creating pathways for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability manifests through three distinct attack vectors that exploit different file inclusion points within the application's codebase, making it particularly dangerous due to its widespread impact across multiple components.
The technical exploitation occurs through manipulation of specific parameters within the application's request handling process. Attackers can leverage the root_path parameter in db.mysql.inc.php and gpb.inc.php files located in the include directory, while also targeting the theme parameter in themes/ubb/login.php. These parameters are processed through PHP's include or require functions without proper sanitization, allowing attackers to inject malicious URLs that get executed as PHP code. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of argument injection and file inclusion attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Once exploited, adversaries can upload additional malware, establish persistent backdoors, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects systems running the GPL PHP Board software, making it particularly concerning for organizations that have not updated their legacy applications. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes exploiting vulnerabilities in remote services, and T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage.
The exploitation process requires minimal technical skill and can be automated using existing attack frameworks, making it attractive to both skilled and less experienced attackers. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple file inclusion points suggests poor input validation practices within the application's architecture, indicating a broader security architecture issue. Organizations with systems running affected versions of GPL PHP Board face significant risk of compromise, particularly if they have not implemented proper network segmentation or web application firewalls to detect and block such attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected software versions, implementation of proper input sanitization measures, and deployment of web application firewalls to prevent exploitation attempts.