CVE-2007-2709 in NagiosQL
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in functions/prepend_adm.php in NagiosQL 2005 2.00 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the SETS[path][physical] parameter.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/15/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2709 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the NagiosQL 2005 2.00 web application. This issue resides in the functions/prepend_adm.php file and demonstrates a classic security weakness that has been documented in numerous applications throughout the history of web development. The vulnerability specifically affects the SETS[path][physical] parameter, which is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the SETS[path][physical] parameter, which is likely used to define physical paths for various application components. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL as the value for this parameter, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before incorporating it into the execution flow. This allows the remote attacker to include external PHP files, effectively enabling code execution on the server. The vulnerability is classified as a remote file inclusion (RFI) issue, which falls under CWE-88, specifically related to improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression. This weakness is particularly dangerous because it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with extensive control over the affected system. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain access to sensitive configuration data, manipulate monitoring data, and potentially use the compromised server as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in monitoring environments where NagiosQL is deployed, as it could lead to unauthorized access to critical infrastructure monitoring systems. The attack vector is straightforward, requiring only that an attacker be able to influence the SETS[path][physical] parameter through web input, making the vulnerability accessible to a wide range of threat actors. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP, demonstrating how the exploitation technique aligns with established threat patterns. The vulnerability also aligns with T1566 - Phishing and T1071.001 - Application Layer Protocol: Web Protocols, as it involves web-based exploitation through HTTP requests.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary fix involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Applications should employ allowlists of acceptable values rather than denylists, and any external file inclusion should be strictly controlled and validated. Additionally, the application should be configured to disable remote file inclusion capabilities entirely, as this feature is rarely necessary in production environments. Security measures should include input validation at multiple levels, including client-side and server-side validation, and the implementation of proper error handling that does not expose system information. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls, network segmentation, and regular security audits to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in the future. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices, particularly in avoiding the use of user input in dynamic code execution contexts, and demonstrates how seemingly minor input validation gaps can lead to complete system compromise. Regular updates and patch management procedures should be implemented to ensure that known vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.