CVE-2007-2346 in PHP-Generics
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in PHP-Generics 1.0 beta allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the _APP_RELATIVE_PATH parameter to (1) include.php, (2) dbcommon/include.php, and (3) exception/include.php.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2346 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the PHP-Generics 1.0 beta framework, classified under CWE-88 as improper neutralization of special elements in a command. This vulnerability exists due to the insecure handling of user-supplied input parameters that are directly incorporated into file inclusion directives without proper validation or sanitization. The affected components include three key files within the framework: include.php, dbcommon/include.php, and exception/include.php, all of which accept the _APP_RELATIVE_PATH parameter that can be manipulated by remote attackers to inject malicious URLs.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the _APP_RELATIVE_PATH parameter, which is then processed by the vulnerable PHP scripts. This allows attackers to include arbitrary PHP files from remote servers, effectively bypassing local file access controls and enabling remote code execution. The flaw stems from the application's failure to validate or sanitize input before using it in include or require statements, creating a classic path traversal and remote code execution vector. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects core framework components that are likely to be used across multiple applications, amplifying the potential impact.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server environment. Once exploited, attackers can upload additional malicious files, establish persistent backdoors, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the system, making it a severe threat to enterprise security. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 (Exploit Public-Facing Application) and T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter), as it allows for remote command execution through PHP scripts. The attack surface is broad since the vulnerability affects multiple entry points within the framework, increasing the probability of successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach includes implementing strict parameter validation that rejects any input containing suspicious characters or patterns, such as URLs, protocol identifiers, or special path characters. Organizations should also implement proper input filtering mechanisms that sanitize all parameters before they are processed by include or require statements. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that the web server runs with minimal necessary permissions and that file inclusion paths are restricted to local directories only. The use of PHP's allow_url_include directive should be disabled to prevent remote file inclusion entirely, and all applications should be updated to versions that properly validate and sanitize user input before processing. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar patterns that could lead to remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack.