CVE-2007-5139 in Chupix Cms
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in admin/include/header.php in chupix 0.2.3, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the repertoire parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5139 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the chupix 0.2.3 content management system that exploits a fundamental security weakness in PHP application design. This vulnerability specifically targets the admin/include/header.php file where the repertoire parameter is improperly handled, creating an opportunity for attackers to inject and execute malicious PHP code remotely. The flaw becomes particularly dangerous when the PHP configuration has register_globals enabled, a deprecated feature that automatically converts HTTP request variables into global variables, thereby expanding the attack surface significantly. This configuration setting was widely used in older PHP environments but posed substantial security risks that were later recognized as critical security vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insecure input validation and dynamic code execution practices within the chupix application. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL in the repertoire parameter, the application fails to properly sanitize or validate this input before incorporating it into the include statement. This allows the attacker to manipulate the include path to reference external malicious files hosted on remote servers, effectively bypassing local file access controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and specifically relates to CWE-94, which covers the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The attack vector operates through the exploitation of PHP's include functionality, where user-controllable input directly influences the file inclusion process, creating a direct pathway for code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server environment. Successful exploitation enables attackers to upload malicious files, execute system commands, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the entire administrative interface of the chupix system, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to gain unauthorized access to content management functionalities. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter, and specifically addresses T1068, which involves exploit for privilege escalation. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that attackers do not require physical access to the server, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5139 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary recommendation involves disabling the register_globals configuration in PHP environments, which was deprecated in PHP 4.2.0 and removed entirely in PHP 5.4.0 due to its inherent security risks. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization techniques is essential, including the use of allowlist validation for all user-controllable parameters and avoiding direct inclusion of user-supplied input in file path operations. The application should employ secure coding practices that prevent dynamic inclusion of files based on user input, instead using predefined configuration files or database lookups with proper access controls. Organizations should also implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls and regular security scanning to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding guidelines and maintaining up-to-date security configurations in web applications, as this flaw represents a classic example of how legacy PHP security practices can create persistent attack vectors in modern web environments.