CVE-2007-4605 in Virtual War
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in convert/mvcw.php in Virtual War (VWar) 1.5.0 R15 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the vwar_root parameter, a different vector than CVE-2006-1503, CVE-2006-1636, and CVE-2006-1747.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4605 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Virtual War (VWar) content management system version 1.5.0 R15 and earlier. This security weakness resides in the convert/mvcw.php script and specifically targets the vwar_root parameter, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability operates through a remote file inclusion mechanism that allows attackers to manipulate input parameters and load external PHP files, effectively bypassing normal application security controls and executing malicious code within the context of the web server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the VWar application's parameter handling mechanisms. When the vwar_root parameter is processed, the application fails to adequately validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations. This creates a direct path for attackers to supply malicious URLs that point to remote PHP scripts hosted on attacker-controlled servers. The flaw essentially allows the application to include and execute PHP code from external sources, which can include web shells, backdoors, or other malicious payloads designed to establish persistent access to the compromised system.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations utilizing affected VWar installations. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to web servers, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and service disruption. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or prior authentication. The vulnerability's classification as a remote file inclusion issue aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an input vector, and corresponds to ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote file inclusion vulnerabilities. Organizations running vulnerable versions face potential exposure to automated scanning tools that actively seek out such weaknesses in web applications.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4605 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates and input validation improvements. System administrators should upgrade to patched versions of VWar that address this vulnerability, as the original software vendor has likely released security patches to resolve the issue. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures within the application code can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in other components. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, while disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configurations can further reduce the attack surface. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in other applications and systems within the organization's infrastructure.