CVE-2007-3935 in SupaNav
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in link_main.php in the SupaNav 1.0.0 module for phpBB allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the phpbb_root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-3935 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the SupaNav 1.0.0 module for phpBB, a widely deployed bulletin board system. This vulnerability exists in the link_main.php component and enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code through manipulation of the phpbb_root_path parameter. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and improper handling of user-supplied data within the module's file inclusion mechanisms.
This vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-98 Improper Control of Generation of Code, specifically manifesting as a remote file inclusion attack vector. The technical implementation involves the module's failure to sanitize or validate the phpbb_root_path parameter before using it in a file inclusion context. When an attacker provides a malicious URL as the value for this parameter, the application attempts to include and execute the remote file, thereby allowing arbitrary code execution on the target system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the inherent functionality of PHP's include or require statements to dynamically load files, creating an attack surface where user input directly influences the file inclusion process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload backdoors, establish persistent access, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised server for further attacks. The vulnerability affects systems running phpBB with the SupaNav 1.0.0 module installed, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of phpBB in web applications. The attack requires minimal privileges and can be executed remotely without authentication, making it highly exploitable in the context of the ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the SupaNav module to version 1.0.1 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the input validation issues. System administrators should also implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, particularly for parameters that influence file inclusion operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by configuring web server permissions to restrict file inclusion capabilities. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other modules and components, as this type of flaw often indicates broader security issues within the application architecture. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution attacks, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and other industry standards.