CVE-2007-2411 in Sphider
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in Sphider 1.2.x allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the include_dir parameter. NOTE: a third party disputes this vulnerability, stating that "the application is not vulnerable to this issue."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2411 pertains to a remote file inclusion flaw in Sphider 1.2.x web applications, specifically within the index.php file. This issue manifests when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input passed through the include_dir parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-88, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code through improper input validation. The security implications extend beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to sensitive resources.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the improper handling of user-supplied input that gets directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization or validation. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL through the include_dir parameter, the application processes this input without sufficient checks, allowing the PHP interpreter to treat the remote URL as a legitimate file path. This behavior creates a direct pathway for remote code execution, as demonstrated by the ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services through file inclusion vulnerabilities. The vulnerability's severity is compounded by the fact that it operates at the application layer, potentially bypassing traditional network-based security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly beyond immediate code execution capabilities. Attackers can leverage this flaw to establish persistent access, deploy backdoors, or conduct data exfiltration operations against the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the application environment, potentially leading to complete system compromise if proper access controls are not in place. Organizations utilizing Sphider 1.2.x applications face risks of unauthorized data access, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059, which covers execution through command and scripting interpreters, and T1105, which addresses remote access through compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures within the application code. The recommended approach includes implementing strict parameter validation, utilizing whitelisting mechanisms for file inclusion paths, and avoiding direct user input incorporation into file operations. Security patches should be applied to upgrade to versions of Sphider that address this vulnerability, while network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit potential damage. Additionally, comprehensive monitoring and logging of file inclusion operations can help detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's disputed nature underscores the importance of thorough validation and verification of security assessments, as proper input handling practices should always be implemented regardless of specific vulnerability claims. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across their application portfolio, ensuring compliance with industry standards such as those defined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.