CVE-2007-4934 in phpFFL
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in phpFFL 1.24 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the PHPFFL_FILE_ROOT parameter to (1) program_files/livedraft/livedraft.php or (2) program_files/livedraft/admin.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4934 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the phpFFL 1.24 content management system that exposes systems to arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability specifically affects two key files within the application's directory structure: program_files/livedraft/livedraft.php and program_files/livedraft/admin.php. The flaw stems from the application's improper handling of user-supplied input through the PHPFFL_FILE_ROOT parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an alternate execution scope, and specifically manifests as a remote file inclusion (RFI) vulnerability. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious URLs and injecting them into the PHPFFL_FILE_ROOT parameter, allowing the application to include and execute arbitrary PHP code from remote servers. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries target web applications to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious payloads.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-4934 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Once exploited, attackers can establish persistent backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system, making it particularly dangerous for web applications exposed to public networks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the phpFFL 1.24 application to the latest available version that addresses this specific flaw. Additionally, administrators should implement input validation and sanitization measures, disable remote file inclusion capabilities in PHP configurations, and employ web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious requests containing malicious URLs. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting file inclusion capabilities to local paths only and implementing proper access controls around the affected application components. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other applications within the organization's infrastructure.