CVE-2007-4331 in FindNix
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in FindNix allows remote attackers to include the contents of arbitrary URLs and conduct cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks via a URL in the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/29/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4331 represents a critical security flaw in the FindNix web application that stems from improper input validation and unsafe file inclusion practices. This vulnerability exists within the index.php script where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations. The flaw allows malicious actors to manipulate the page parameter to reference external URLs, creating a remote file inclusion (RFI) attack vector that can be exploited to execute arbitrary code on the target system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows the classic remote file inclusion pattern where user-controllable parameters are directly incorporated into file inclusion functions without adequate sanitization. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL through the page parameter, the application processes this input and attempts to include the remote file, effectively allowing the attacker to inject and execute arbitrary code on the server. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically the lack of proper input validation for file inclusion operations. The flaw demonstrates a dangerous combination of insecure coding practices that enables attackers to bypass normal application security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass a complete compromise of the affected system. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to inject malicious scripts that can perform various malicious activities including data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and establishing persistent access to the compromised server. The cross-site scripting component of this vulnerability allows attackers to execute malicious JavaScript code in the context of the victim's browser, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or further exploitation of the web application. This dual nature of the vulnerability makes it particularly dangerous as it can be used both for server-side code execution and client-side attacks, creating multiple attack surfaces for threat actors.
The implications of this vulnerability align with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to initial access and execution phases. Attackers can use this vulnerability to establish a foothold in the target environment through remote code execution, followed by privilege escalation and lateral movement. The vulnerability also enables techniques such as command and control communication where attackers can establish connections to remote servers to receive further instructions. Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, disabling remote file inclusion features, and implementing proper parameter sanitization. Additionally, security measures such as web application firewalls and regular security audits should be deployed to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of input validation and secure coding practices in preventing remote file inclusion attacks that have been a persistent threat in web application security for many years.