CVE-2007-3289 in Wiwimod Module
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in spaw/spaw_control.class.php in the WiwiMod 0.4 module for XOOPS allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the spaw_root parameter. NOTE: this issue is probably a duplicate of CVE-2006-4656.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3289 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the WiwiMod 0.4 module for XOOPS content management system. This vulnerability exists within the spaw/spaw_control.class.php file where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input parameters. The specific parameter affected is spaw_root which is used to define the root directory for the SPAW (Simple PHP WYSIWYG) editor functionality. When an attacker can manipulate this parameter with a malicious URL, the application becomes vulnerable to arbitrary code execution through remote file inclusion techniques.
This vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically relates to CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code. The flaw allows attackers to inject malicious PHP code through the spaw_root parameter, potentially enabling complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it highly attractive to malicious actors seeking to gain unauthorized access to web applications. The issue is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited from any location with network access to the vulnerable application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. Attackers can leverage this flaw to upload malicious files, establish persistent backdoors, or escalate privileges within the affected system. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire XOOPS platform, as it allows unauthorized users to execute arbitrary PHP code on the server hosting the vulnerable module. This type of vulnerability can lead to complete server takeover, data exfiltration, and the ability to use the compromised server for further attacks against other systems. The risk is amplified by the fact that the vulnerability is present in a widely used content management system module, potentially affecting numerous websites and organizations that utilize the WiwiMod 0.4 functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-3289 should focus on immediate patching of the affected module, as the vulnerability has been superseded by CVE-2006-4656 which addresses the same issue. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent malicious URLs from being processed through the spaw_root parameter. The recommended approach includes disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration, implementing proper parameter validation, and applying the latest security patches from the XOOPS development team. Additionally, network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly in the context of preventing code injection attacks and maintaining application integrity. System administrators should also conduct thorough security audits to identify other potential vulnerabilities in the XOOPS platform and ensure that all modules are regularly updated to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.