CVE-2007-4834 in phpRealty
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in phpRealty 0.02 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the MGR parameter to (1) index.php, (2) p_ins.php, and (3) u_ins.php in manager/admin/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4834 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting phpRealty version 0.02, a web-based real estate management system. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the application's handling of user-supplied data, specifically in the MGR parameter that is processed through multiple entry points. The flaw exists in the manager/admin/ directory where the application fails to adequately validate or sanitize the MGR parameter before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. This oversight creates a pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code through remote file inclusion attacks, fundamentally compromising the integrity and security of the affected system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of command injection and file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability operates by accepting a URL in the MGR parameter and subsequently including that URL as a PHP file, thereby executing any malicious code contained within the remote resource. This process violates fundamental security principles of input validation and secure coding practices, as the application directly incorporates user-controllable data without proper sanitization or verification. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it allows remote code execution, enabling attackers to gain full control over the affected server and potentially escalate privileges to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-4834 is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary PHP code, upload malicious files, modify existing functionality, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the compromised system. The vulnerability affects three specific files within the application's administrative interface, making it particularly concerning as it targets the core management functionality of the real estate platform. This exposure could lead to data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive real estate information, and potential compromise of the entire web server infrastructure. The vulnerability also falls under ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for server-side include attacks, demonstrating how attackers can leverage web application flaws to achieve unauthorized code execution and system control.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the vendor-provided patch or upgrading to a newer version of phpRealty that addresses this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, ensuring that all user-supplied data, particularly parameters used in file inclusion operations, are thoroughly validated before processing. Security configurations should include disabling remote file inclusion capabilities within PHP applications and implementing strict input filtering mechanisms. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments, as outlined in industry standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks, emphasizing the need for proper parameter validation and secure file handling procedures.