CVE-2007-2544 in PHP TopTree BBS
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in templates/default/tpl_message.php in PHP TopTree BBS 2.0.1a and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the right_file parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2544 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the PHP TopTree BBS 2.0.1a and earlier versions. This security weakness resides in the templates/default/tpl_message.php file where user-controllable input is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or validation. The vulnerability specifically affects the right_file parameter which accepts URL values, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of insecure direct object references and remote code execution flaws that have been consistently documented in security frameworks and threat intelligence databases.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the PHP application's template processing system. When the right_file parameter receives a URL value, the application fails to validate or sanitize this input before using it in a file inclusion context. This allows attackers to manipulate the parameter to reference malicious remote files hosted on external servers, effectively bypassing local file access controls and executing unauthorized code with the privileges of the web server process. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of input sanitization and output encoding practices that are fundamental to secure coding standards. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps directly to CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically addresses the execution of arbitrary code through insecure file inclusion mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with comprehensive control over the affected web server and potentially the underlying system. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, lateral movement within network environments, and establishment of persistent backdoors. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy web shells, modify existing application functionality, steal sensitive information, or use the compromised server as a launching point for attacks against other systems. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the affected BBS system, making it a critical concern for organizations relying on this software. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers "Exploit Public-Facing Application," and represents a common attack vector for initial access and privilege escalation in cybersecurity threat models.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2544 require immediate remediation through software updates and code modifications. The primary solution involves upgrading to a patched version of PHP TopTree BBS that addresses the insecure file inclusion vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures that prevent URL parameters from being used directly in file inclusion operations. This includes implementing allowlists of permitted file paths, using absolute path resolution, and employing secure coding practices that prevent dynamic file inclusion with user-controllable data. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls, input validation rules, and network segmentation to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments, particularly for legacy applications that may contain outdated or unpatched code structures. Organizations should also implement comprehensive monitoring and logging to detect potential exploitation attempts and establish incident response procedures to address successful attacks.