CVE-2007-4007 in Article Directory
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in Article Directory (Article Site Directory) allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/28/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4007 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Article Directory (Article Site Directory) web application, specifically affecting the index.php script. This vulnerability resides within the parameter handling mechanism where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The affected parameter named 'page' demonstrates a classic insecure direct object reference pattern that enables attackers to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted URLs.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which addresses execution of arbitrary code. The flaw occurs when the application uses user-controllable input to construct file paths without adequate validation, creating an environment where malicious actors can inject URLs pointing to remote malicious code repositories. The vulnerability exists at the application logic level where the page parameter is directly used in include or require statements without proper sanitization, allowing for arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and potentially catastrophic for affected systems. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, effectively gaining complete control over the web application and potentially the underlying operating system. This remote code execution capability enables threat actors to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, perform lateral movement within network infrastructure, and conduct various malicious activities including data corruption or destruction. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the targeted system, making it a high-priority security concern that can lead to complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4007 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization techniques. The most effective approach involves eliminating the use of user-controllable parameters in file inclusion operations entirely, instead implementing a whitelist-based system that only allows predefined, safe values. Organizations should also employ secure coding practices that avoid dynamic file inclusion with user input, and implement proper parameter validation that rejects any input containing suspicious characters or patterns. Additionally, the application should be configured to disable remote file inclusion features and restrict file access permissions. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications to gain remote code execution, making it a prime target for exploitation by both automated scanners and targeted attack groups. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar patterns in other application components and ensure comprehensive protection against similar remote file inclusion vulnerabilities.