CVE-2007-2458 in Pixaria Gallery
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Pixaria Gallery before 1.4.3 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the cfg[sys][base_path] parameter to psg.smarty.lib.php and certain include and library scripts, a different vector than CVE-2007-2457.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2458 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting Pixaria Gallery versions prior to 1.4.3. This security weakness resides in the application's handling of user-supplied input within the cfg[sys][base_path] parameter, which is processed through the psg.smarty.lib.php script and associated include and library components. The vulnerability classifies under CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The flaw enables malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code by manipulating the base_path parameter to reference external URLs, effectively bypassing local file access controls and executing malicious code on the target server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a specific attack vector involving the manipulation of the cfg[sys][base_path] parameter within the psg.smarty.lib.php file. When the application processes this parameter without proper validation or sanitization, it allows remote attackers to inject URLs that point to malicious PHP scripts hosted on external servers. The vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2007-2457, indicating a separate code path or implementation flaw that requires different exploitation techniques. This type of vulnerability typically falls under the ATT&CK framework category of T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers target web applications to gain unauthorized code execution capabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-2458 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server. Successful exploitation can lead to data breaches, server compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of Pixaria Gallery by allowing attackers to inject malicious code through legitimate include mechanisms, making detection more challenging. Organizations running affected versions face significant risk of unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and potential establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the importance of proper parameter sanitization in web applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching to version 1.4.3 or later, which addresses the root cause through proper input validation and sanitization of the cfg[sys][base_path] parameter. Administrators should implement proper input filtering mechanisms that prevent URL schemes from being accepted in critical parameters, particularly those used for file inclusion operations. Network-level defenses such as web application firewalls can provide additional protection by blocking suspicious URL patterns in request parameters. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of secure coding practices including parameter validation, input sanitization, and the principle of least privilege in web application development. Organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and implement comprehensive security monitoring to detect exploitation attempts. Regular security updates and vulnerability management processes are essential to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities like CVE-2007-2458.