CVE-2007-5102 in Wordsmith
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in config.inc.php in Wordsmith 1.0 RC1, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the _path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5102 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Wordsmith 1.0 RC1 content management system. This vulnerability specifically targets the config.inc.php file and exploits a fundamental configuration weakness that exists when the PHP register_globals directive is enabled. The flaw arises from inadequate input validation and improper parameter handling within the application's configuration management system, creating an attack surface that malicious actors can leverage to execute arbitrary code on the affected server. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to inject and execute PHP code without requiring authentication or local access to the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the insecure handling of the _path parameter within the config.inc.php file. When register_globals is enabled, PHP automatically creates global variables from GET, POST, and cookie data, which eliminates the need for explicit variable declarations. This configuration creates a dangerous environment where user-supplied input can directly influence the application's behavior. Attackers can manipulate the _path parameter to include malicious URLs, which then get processed by the application's include or require functions. This process effectively allows attackers to load and execute arbitrary PHP code from remote servers, bypassing normal access controls and security mechanisms that would typically prevent such unauthorized execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, creating significant risks for organizations using the affected Wordsmith version. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks. The vulnerability affects the core configuration file of the application, meaning that any system running Wordsmith 1.0 RC1 with register_globals enabled is potentially vulnerable to remote code execution. This creates a persistent threat that can be exploited repeatedly until the underlying configuration issue is resolved, making it particularly attractive to attackers who seek long-term access to compromised systems.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and relates to broader categories of injection flaws within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The attack vector corresponds to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for command and scripting interpreters. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation by disabling register_globals in their PHP configurations, implementing proper input validation, and updating to patched versions of the Wordsmith application. Additional protective measures include network segmentation, web application firewalls, and regular security audits to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and systems. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of secure coding practices and the dangers of legacy PHP configurations that enable potentially dangerous features like register_globals, which should be deprecated in modern web applications.