CVE-2007-4384 in VOTE
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in depouilg.php3 in Stephane Pineau VOTE 1c allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) NomVote and (2) FilePalHex parameters.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4384 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting the Stephane Pineau VOTE 1c application. This issue resides within the depouilg.php3 script and demonstrates a classic improper input validation vulnerability that enables attackers to inject malicious URLs into application parameters. The vulnerability specifically impacts two parameter fields named NomVote and FilePalHex, both of which are susceptible to manipulation through remote file inclusion techniques. The flaw falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, representing arbitrary code execution through untrusted input. This vulnerability operates at the intersection of multiple ATT&CK tactics including TA0002 Execution and TA0001 Initial Access, as it allows remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system.
The technical mechanism of exploitation involves the direct inclusion of external URLs within the application's parameter handling without proper validation or sanitization. When attackers manipulate the NomVote and FilePalHex parameters to include malicious URLs, the application processes these inputs and attempts to include the remote files, thereby executing any PHP code contained within those files. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be leveraged to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate data, or escalate privileges within the affected system. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it allows for remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools. The flaw essentially bypasses normal application security controls by treating external URLs as legitimate code sources, creating a pathway for attackers to execute malicious payloads directly on the server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass comprehensive system compromise and data breach potential. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy web shells, install malware, or establish command and control channels that persist across system reboots. The vulnerability also enables attackers to perform reconnaissance activities such as enumerating system files, accessing databases, or scanning internal network resources. From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability directly impacts organizations' ability to maintain data integrity and confidentiality, potentially violating regulations such as gdpr, hipaa, or pci dss requirements. The vulnerability's exploitation can result in complete system compromise, data loss, and service disruption, making it a critical security concern for any organization running affected versions of the VOTE 1c application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4384 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security architecture improvements. The primary solution involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Organizations should disable remote file inclusion capabilities entirely by configuring php settings to restrict the use of remote URLs in include functions. Additionally, implementing proper parameter validation, using allowlists for acceptable input values, and employing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious URL patterns can significantly reduce exploitation risk. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security patching and vulnerability assessment programs, as this issue was likely resolved in subsequent versions of the affected software. Security teams should also implement monitoring solutions to detect unusual file inclusion patterns and establish incident response procedures specifically designed to handle remote code execution vulnerabilities. The mitigation approach should align with security frameworks such as the owasp top 10 and nist cybersecurity framework to ensure comprehensive protection against similar vulnerabilities in the future.