CVE-2007-2614 in phpHtmlLib
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in examples/widget8.php in phpHtmlLib 2.4.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the phphtmllib parameter.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2614 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the phpHtmlLib library version 2.4.0 and earlier. This issue resides in the examples/widget8.php script which fails to properly validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into file operations. The vulnerability stems from the library's improper handling of the phphtmllib parameter, which accepts URL values that can be manipulated by remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary PHP code from external sources. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The flaw operates at the application level and represents a classic example of how insecure input handling can lead to complete system compromise.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL containing a remote file path that gets passed to the phphtmllib parameter in the widget8.php script. When the script processes this parameter without proper sanitization or validation, it attempts to include the remote file using PHP's include or require functions, effectively executing the malicious code hosted on the attacker's server. This mechanism allows for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the web server process, potentially enabling attackers to gain full control over the affected system, install backdoors, or extract sensitive data. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication and can be exploited through simple HTTP requests, making it highly accessible to attackers with basic web exploitation skills. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for the execution of code through PHP and T1190 for the exploitation of remote services.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-2614 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data breaches. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can perform various malicious activities including but not limited to data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects any web application that utilizes the vulnerable version of phpHtmlLib, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple applications share common libraries. Organizations running affected systems face significant risk of unauthorized access, system modification, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish command and control channels, deploy malware, or use the compromised system as a launch point for attacks against other systems. Security professionals must consider the implications of this vulnerability in the context of broader security frameworks, as it demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution attacks that can lead to complete system compromise and data loss.