CVE-2007-4818 in Txx CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Txx CMS 0.2 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the doc_root parameter to (1) addons/plugin.php, (2) addons/sidebar.php, (3) mail/index.php, or (4) mail/mailbox.php in modules/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/06/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-4818 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting Txx CMS version 0.2, specifically targeting multiple components within the application's addons and mail modules. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The flaw exists due to the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input parameters, particularly the doc_root parameter that is processed in several key files throughout the CMS architecture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious URLs through the doc_root parameter, which are then processed by the PHP interpreter without adequate sanitization. When the application attempts to include files using this parameter, it directly incorporates user-controllable input into the file inclusion mechanism, creating a classic remote file inclusion (RFI) attack vector. This vulnerability affects four specific files: addons/plugin.php, addons/sidebar.php, mail/index.php, and mail/mailbox.php within the modules directory, indicating a systemic issue in how the CMS handles dynamic file inclusion across its component modules. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects core functionality modules that are frequently accessed and executed by the application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation can result in arbitrary code execution, data theft, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability enables attackers to upload and execute malicious PHP scripts, potentially leading to persistent backdoors, data exfiltration, and complete system takeover. Given that this affects a content management system, the implications extend beyond simple code execution to include potential exposure of sensitive user data, website defacement, and disruption of legitimate services. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire CMS installation and its underlying web server environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-4818 should focus on immediate patching and input validation improvements. Organizations must ensure that all affected Txx CMS installations are updated to versions that address this vulnerability, as the original version 0.2 is likely to contain additional security flaws. Implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures is critical, including disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration, using allow_url_include = Off in php.ini, and implementing strict parameter validation for all user-supplied inputs. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems should be deployed to detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. The implementation of principle of least privilege and secure coding practices, aligned with CWE-22 and CWE-94 categories, should be enforced to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments of their web applications to identify and remediate other potential injection vulnerabilities that may exist within their infrastructure.