CVE-2007-4951 in YaPiG
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in sample.php in YaPiG 0.95b allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the YAPIG_PATH parameter. NOTE: this issue has been disputed by CVE, since YAPIG_PATH is defined before use.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4951 pertains to a remote file inclusion flaw discovered in YaPiG version 0.95b, specifically within the sample.php script. This issue represents a classic server-side include vulnerability that could potentially allow malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability manifests when the YAPIG_PATH parameter is manipulated through URL input, creating an opportunity for remote code execution through improper input validation and handling.
The technical flaw stems from the insecure handling of user-supplied input within the PHP application context. When the YAPIG_PATH parameter is passed to the sample.php script without adequate sanitization or validation, it creates a pathway for attackers to inject malicious URLs that point to remote resources containing malicious PHP code. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper file inclusion vulnerabilities, and represents a variant of the broader category of remote code execution vulnerabilities that have plagued web applications for decades. The flaw operates under the principle that user input should never be trusted and must always be validated before being processed by the application.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to systems running affected versions of YaPiG, as it could enable attackers to gain complete control over the affected web server. The remote execution capability means that malicious actors could upload backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify existing files, or even use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential data breaches, service disruption, and compromise of the entire hosting environment. This vulnerability would typically be classified under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for remote code execution through web shells and T1190 for exploitation of remote services.
Despite the disputed nature of this CVE as noted in the description, the underlying security principles remain relevant to modern application security practices. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of input validation, proper parameter handling, and the principle of least privilege in web application development. Even though the CVE has been disputed due to the claim that YAPIG_PATH is defined before use, the fundamental security issue of improper input handling remains valid. Organizations should implement comprehensive security measures including proper input validation, use of secure coding practices, and regular security assessments to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited. The disputed status does not negate the security implications of improper parameter handling in web applications, which continues to be a prevalent issue in software development and remains relevant to current security best practices and compliance requirements.