CVE-2007-4763 in PHPOF
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in dbmodules/DB_adodb.class.php in PHP Object Framework (PHPOF) 20040226 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the PHPOF_INCLUDE_PATH parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4763 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the PHP Object Framework version 20040226 and earlier releases. This issue manifests in the dbmodules/DB_adodb.class.php file where the application fails to properly validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The vulnerability specifically affects the PHPOF_INCLUDE_PATH parameter which is processed without adequate sanitization, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that can be executed as PHP code on the target server.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-98 category of "Improper Input Validation" and more specifically aligns with CWE-88 which addresses "Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command" and CWE-20 which covers "Improper Input Validation". The attack vector leverages the fundamental weakness in how the framework handles dynamic file inclusion operations, where user-controllable parameters are directly used in include or require statements without proper validation or sanitization mechanisms. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to manipulate the application's execution flow by injecting malicious URLs that get evaluated and executed as PHP code, thereby bypassing normal access controls and security boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and encompasses multiple attack surfaces that can lead to complete system compromise. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, system manipulation, and full control over the affected web application. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or authentication. This vulnerability can be leveraged to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks against internal networks. The attack can result in data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations, particularly in environments where the framework is used for handling sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4763 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected PHP Object Framework version to the latest available release that contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization mechanisms to ensure that all user-supplied parameters are properly validated before being used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of a whitelist approach for file inclusion parameters can prevent attackers from injecting malicious URLs. Additionally, disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration and using secure coding practices such as the principle of least privilege when handling user input can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be deployed to monitor for suspicious patterns of activity that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security assessments and maintaining up-to-date software versions to prevent known vulnerabilities from being exploited in the wild. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP", emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures including application hardening, network segmentation, and continuous monitoring of application logs for signs of exploitation attempts.