CVE-2007-2743 in GlossWord
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in custom_vars.php in GlossWord 1.8.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the sys[path_addon] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-2743 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the GlossWord 1.8.1 content management system. This vulnerability exists in the custom_vars.php script where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or validation. The specific parameter affected is sys[path_addon] which accepts URL values that are subsequently processed by the application's file inclusion mechanism. This design flaw enables malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that point to remote malicious code repositories, thereby bypassing local file system restrictions and executing unauthorized PHP code on the target server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of command and control operations. The flaw occurs because the application fails to implement proper input validation and sanitization before incorporating user-provided data into file inclusion operations. Attackers can craft malicious URLs that, when passed through the sys[path_addon] parameter, cause the application to include and execute remote PHP files, effectively granting remote code execution capabilities. This vulnerability operates at the intersection of improper input validation and insecure file handling practices, creating a pathway for attackers to escalate privileges and compromise the entire server infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete remote code execution privileges on the affected server. Once exploited, malicious actors can upload additional backdoors, establish persistent access, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks against other systems. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the web application and underlying server infrastructure, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Organizations running GlossWord 1.8.1 are particularly at risk since this flaw allows for stealthy exploitation without requiring authentication or local access, making it an attractive target for automated attack tools.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the vendor-provided patch or upgrading to a newer version of GlossWord that addresses this specific flaw. Organizations should also implement input validation and sanitization measures that prevent URL parameters from being directly used in file inclusion operations. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing proper access controls, disabling unnecessary file inclusion features, and conducting regular security assessments of web applications are essential practices that align with the defense-in-depth principles outlined in cybersecurity frameworks. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution attacks, as outlined in various ATT&CK framework techniques related to command and control operations and privilege escalation.