CVE-2007-2762 in Build it Fast
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Build it Fast (bif3) 0.4.1 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in (1) the pear_dir parameter to Base/Application.php, or the (2) sys_dir parameter to (a) Footer.php, (b) widget.BifContainer.php, (c) widget.BifRoot.php, (d) widget.BifRoot2.php, (e) widget.BifRoot3.php, or (f) widget.BifWarning.php in Widgets/Base/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2762 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting the Build it Fast (bif3) content management system version 0.4.1. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, specifically manifesting as multiple instances of remote file inclusion that can be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary PHP code on affected systems. The flaw exists in the application's handling of user-supplied input parameters that are directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or validation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of specific parameter names within the application's request processing flow. Attackers can exploit the pear_dir parameter in Base/Application.php and the sys_dir parameter in multiple widget files including Footer.php and various BifRoot.php implementations to inject malicious URLs that will be executed as PHP code. These parameters are used in file inclusion operations where the application concatenates user input directly into file paths without proper validation, creating a pathway for attackers to load and execute arbitrary code from remote servers. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects multiple entry points within the application's codebase, increasing the attack surface and exploitation opportunities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it allows remote attackers to gain complete control over affected systems. Successful exploitation enables attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target server, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability can be exploited without authentication requirements, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and represents a classic example of how insecure parameter handling can lead to remote code execution. The attack vector follows typical patterns documented in the ATT&CK framework under T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for command and scripting interpreters.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including applying the vendor-supplied patch or upgrading to a secure version of the Build it Fast application. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent user-supplied data from being used in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach involves using allowlists for parameter values, implementing proper input validation, and avoiding direct concatenation of user input into file paths. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can provide additional layers of defense. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper parameter validation and input sanitization in preventing remote code execution attacks, aligning with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and other industry standards for secure coding practices.