CVE-2007-2521 in E-GADS
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in common.php in E-GADS! before 2.2.7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the locale parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2521 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the E-GADS! content management system prior to version 2.2.7. This vulnerability specifically affects the common.php script which processes user input through the locale parameter, creating an exploitable pathway for remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict the sources from which file paths can be loaded, allowing attackers to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted URL parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The locale parameter in the common.php script accepts user-supplied input without proper validation, enabling attackers to specify external URLs that contain malicious PHP code. When the application processes this parameter and attempts to include the specified file, it executes the remote code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it targets publicly accessible web applications through well-known attack vectors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the target system and the ability to perform further reconnaissance and lateral movement within the network. Successful exploitation allows attackers to upload additional malicious files, establish backdoors, and potentially gain access to sensitive data stored within the application's database or file system. The vulnerability affects all versions of E-GADS! prior to 2.2.7, making it a significant concern for organizations that have not updated their systems. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can leverage this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2521 should focus on immediate patching of the E-GADS! application to version 2.2.7 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Organizations should also implement proper input sanitization measures such as whitelisting acceptable locale values, disabling remote file inclusion in PHP configuration, and implementing proper access controls to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Additionally, network-based intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious URL patterns and parameter manipulation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices including input validation, output encoding, and the principle of least privilege in web application development, as outlined in various security frameworks and standards. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other applications within the organization's infrastructure.