CVE-2007-3358 in SerWeb
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in html/load_lang.php in SerWeb 0.9.6 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the _SERWEB[serwebdir] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3358 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in SerWeb version 0.9.6 and earlier, specifically within the html/load_lang.php component. This issue falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations, allowing attackers to manipulate the _SERWEB[serwebdir] parameter to reference external malicious files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the _SERWEB[serwebdir] parameter, which is then processed by the load_lang.php script. This script performs a file inclusion operation without adequate sanitization, enabling the execution of remote PHP code. The flaw directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which addresses execution of arbitrary code. The vulnerability exists due to the application's reliance on user input for determining file paths, creating a direct code execution vector that bypasses normal access controls and authentication mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it provides remote attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary commands on the target system, potentially leading to data theft, system infiltration, and further lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability affects web applications that utilize the SerWeb framework, particularly those deployed in environments where user input is not properly sanitized. This flaw enables attackers to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, and conduct reconnaissance activities against the compromised system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in shared hosting environments or applications that do not implement proper input validation measures.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-3358 involve immediate patching of affected SerWeb installations to version 0.9.7 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. System administrators should implement strict input validation and sanitization procedures, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters undergo rigorous validation before being processed. The principle of least privilege should be enforced, limiting the application's ability to include external files and restricting file inclusion operations to predefined, trusted directories. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring and filtering suspicious traffic patterns. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, and T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP, highlighting the need for comprehensive defensive measures including network monitoring, intrusion detection systems, and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation of such remote code execution vulnerabilities.