CVE-2007-2608 in Miplex2
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in lib/smarty/SmartyFU.class.php in Miplex2 Alpha 1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the system[smarty][dir] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/13/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2608 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Miplex2 Alpha 1 content management system that specifically affects the Smarty template engine integration. This vulnerability exists in the file lib/smarty/SmartyFU.class.php and allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code through manipulation of the system[smarty][dir] parameter. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which specifically addresses "Improper Neutralization of Argument Separators in a Command" and is closely related to CWE-94, "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" as it enables remote code execution through code injection techniques.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the system[smarty][dir] parameter, which is then processed by the Smarty template engine without adequate security controls. The vulnerability essentially allows attackers to specify arbitrary directories or URLs that the application will attempt to include and execute as PHP code. This creates a pathway for remote code execution where attackers can leverage the legitimate file inclusion mechanisms to load and execute malicious payloads from remote servers. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through web-based interfaces without requiring any special privileges or local system access, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Successful exploitation enables adversaries to execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, and full administrative control. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the Miplex2 application, which could result in widespread service disruption and data loss. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.001 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" as it represents a classic example of public-facing application exploitation leading to remote code execution. The vulnerability also demonstrates characteristics of T1505.003 "Server Software Component: Web Shell" as attackers can establish persistent access through the executed code.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2608 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary fix involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. This includes enforcing strict whitelisting of allowed directories and preventing any user input from being directly used in include or require statements. Organizations should also disable the ability to pass external URLs for file inclusion and implement proper parameter validation that rejects potentially malicious input patterns. The solution aligns with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten 2017 category A03:2017 "Injection" and follows the principle of least privilege by restricting file inclusion operations to predefined, trusted directories only. Additionally, regular security audits and input validation testing should be implemented to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future code releases, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution through parameter manipulation.