CVE-2007-2816 in olbookmarks
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in ol'bookmarks 0.7.4 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the root parameter to (1) test1.php, (2) blackorange.php, (3) default.php, (4) frames1.php, (5) frames1_top.php, (7) test2.php, (8) test3.php, (9) test4.php, (10) test5.php, (11) test6.php, (12) frames1_left.php, and (13) frames1_center.php in themes/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/17/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-2816 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting the ol'bookmarks 0.7.4 web application. This issue stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the application's theme handling mechanisms, specifically in how the root parameter is processed. The vulnerability exists across multiple PHP files within the themes directory, creating a widespread attack surface that allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The affected files include test1.php, blackorange.php, default.php, and various frame-related files, all of which process the root parameter without adequate security controls. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-88 category for Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94 for Code Injection, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code through manipulated input parameters. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this under T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it targets a web application interface that is accessible to remote attackers.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a malicious URL containing a remote file reference that gets included and executed by the vulnerable PHP scripts. When the application processes the root parameter, it directly incorporates user-supplied input into file inclusion operations without proper validation or sanitization. This creates a condition where an attacker can specify any remote URL containing malicious PHP code, which will then be executed on the server hosting the vulnerable application. The impact is particularly severe because the vulnerability affects multiple files within the themes directory, increasing the attack surface and providing multiple potential entry points for exploitation. The lack of input validation means that attackers can bypass normal access controls and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, attackers can establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability enables a range of malicious activities including data theft, system compromise, and the installation of backdoors or additional malware. Organizations running affected versions of ol'bookmarks face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The nature of the vulnerability also means that automated scanning tools can easily detect and exploit this weakness, making it particularly attractive to opportunistic attackers. The vulnerability's presence in multiple theme files also suggests that the application's architecture lacks proper input validation at the core of its file inclusion mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-2816 must address the root cause of improper input validation and implement robust security controls. The primary solution involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Organizations should employ allowlists of permitted values rather than denylists, ensuring that only legitimate theme files can be referenced. The application should be updated to use absolute paths and validate that all file references originate from within the expected directories. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration can significantly reduce the attack surface. Security headers and web application firewalls should be deployed to detect and block suspicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other applications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and implementing defense-in-depth strategies to protect against remote code execution attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely remediation of known vulnerabilities.