CVE-2007-3136 in newsSync
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in inc/nuke_include.php in newsSync 1.5.0rc6 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the newsSync_NUKE_PATH parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3136 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the newsSync 1.5.0rc6 content management system. This vulnerability exists within the inc/nuke_include.php file where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The specific parameter affected is newsSync_NUKE_PATH which accepts URL values that are directly processed by the application without adequate security controls. This creates an avenue for attackers to inject malicious PHP code through crafted URLs that get executed within the target system's context, effectively allowing for arbitrary code execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The flaw operates by accepting a URL parameter that gets directly included in the application's execution flow without proper validation mechanisms. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of code injection attacks and represents a classic example of how insecure input handling can lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to full system compromise.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, which can result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor installation. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or authentication. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, establish reverse shells, or perform other malicious activities that could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data and system resources. The vulnerability also poses a significant risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, potentially allowing for long-term persistence and further network exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected newsSync application to version 1.5.0rc7 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures to ensure that all user-supplied parameters are properly validated before being used in file inclusion operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running web applications with minimal required permissions and by implementing proper access controls. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar insecure coding practices in other applications within the organization's infrastructure. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly focusing on preventing code injection attacks and implementing proper input validation controls.