CVE-2007-4606 in PHPNuke-Clan
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in convert/mvcw_conver.php in the Virtual War (VWar) module for PHPNuke-Clan (PNC) 4.2.0 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the vwar_root parameter, a different vector than CVE-2006-1602. NOTE: it is possible that this issue stems from a problem in VWar itself.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-4606 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Virtual War module for PHPNuke-Clan version 4.2.0 and earlier. This issue specifically affects the convert/mvcw_conver.php file and demonstrates a classic security weakness that enables attackers to inject and execute malicious PHP code remotely. The vulnerability operates through the vwar_root parameter, which accepts URL inputs without proper validation or sanitization, creating an exploitable path for malicious actors to leverage.
This remote file inclusion vulnerability falls under the CWE-88 category, which classifies the weakness as "Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command" and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')." The flaw allows attackers to manipulate the vwar_root parameter to include external URLs, potentially enabling them to load and execute arbitrary PHP scripts hosted on remote servers. The attack vector is distinct from CVE-2006-1602, indicating this represents a separate but equally dangerous vulnerability within the same software ecosystem. The issue originates from the VWar module itself, suggesting that the core problem lies within the module's implementation rather than the broader PHPNuke-Clan framework.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides remote attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access, install backdoors, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised server for further attacks. The vulnerability affects installations running PHPNuke-Clan 4.2.0 and earlier versions, making it particularly dangerous for organizations that have not updated their systems. Attackers could leverage this flaw to deploy web shells, modify database contents, or manipulate the application's functionality to serve their malicious purposes.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected software versions, as the most effective solution. Organizations must upgrade to PHPNuke-Clan versions that contain fixes for this specific vulnerability. Input validation and sanitization should be implemented to prevent URL parameters from containing malicious content, and the principle of least privilege should be enforced when configuring the application. Additionally, implementing proper web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP," highlighting the need for comprehensive security measures including network segmentation and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation of such remote code execution vulnerabilities.