CVE-2007-5165 in myIpacNG-stats
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in init.php in Jens Tkotz myIpacNG-stats (MINGS) 0.05 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the MINGS_BASE parameter. NOTE: this issue is disputed by CVE because MINGS_BASE is defined before use.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/08/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-5165 pertains to a potential remote file inclusion flaw within the myIpacNG-stats (MINGS) web application version 0.05, specifically in the init.php component. This issue falls under the category of insecure direct object references and remote code execution vulnerabilities that have been historically prevalent in web applications. The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of user-supplied input within the MINGS_BASE parameter, which is processed during application initialization. According to the initial description, attackers could potentially manipulate this parameter with a malicious URL to achieve arbitrary code execution on the target system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an eval() context, and CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code. The flaw manifests when the application accepts user input for the MINGS_BASE parameter without adequate sanitization or validation before using it in file inclusion operations. This creates an environment where an attacker can inject malicious URLs that, when processed by the application, could lead to the execution of unauthorized PHP code on the server. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of how dynamic file inclusion can become a security risk when user input is not properly controlled.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant, as it could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected server with the privileges of the web application. This capability enables attackers to potentially gain full control over the web server, access sensitive data, install backdoors, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The risk is particularly elevated because the vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools. Organizations running affected versions of myIpacNG-stats would face potential data breaches, system compromise, and service disruption.
Security practitioners should note that the vulnerability's disputed status stems from the argument that MINGS_BASE is defined before use, suggesting that the vulnerability may not be exploitable as described. However, this does not diminish the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices. The recommended mitigations include implementing strict input validation for all user-supplied parameters, using allowlists for acceptable values, and avoiding dynamic file inclusion where possible. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls, regular security assessments, and maintaining up-to-date application versions to prevent exploitation of such vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1190 for exploit for client execution and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, highlighting the multi-layered approach required for effective defense against such threats.