CVE-2007-5167 in phpLister
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in .systeme/fonctions.php in phpLister 0.5-pre2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the nom_rep_systeme parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/09/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5167 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in phpLister version 0.5-pre2 that exposes systems to arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability specifically affects the .systeme/fonctions.php file where user input is improperly handled, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The flaw manifests when the nom_rep_systeme parameter receives a URL value that is directly incorporated into the include statement without proper sanitization or validation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a lack of input validation and proper sanitization mechanisms within the phpLister application. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL through the nom_rep_systeme parameter, the application processes this input by including the specified file through a vulnerable include function. This creates a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability that falls under CWE-88, which specifically addresses the improper handling of data from external sources during inclusion operations. The vulnerability demonstrates poor secure coding practices where dynamic file inclusion is performed without proper authorization checks or input filtering, making it susceptible to manipulation by remote attackers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute malicious PHP code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data, system enumeration, and further lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools. This type of vulnerability is categorized under the ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploitation of remote services to gain initial access, and can lead to broader compromise through privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures within the affected application. The most effective approach involves removing or properly validating all user-supplied input before it is used in file inclusion operations. Implementing a whitelist-based approach that restricts file inclusion to predefined, trusted locations significantly reduces the attack surface. Additionally, disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in the PHP configuration through the allow_url_include directive provides an additional layer of defense. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious URL patterns in the nom_rep_systeme parameter. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten 2017 category A03: Injection, which specifically addresses the dangers of unvalidated inputs leading to code execution. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar patterns in other applications, as this vulnerability type remains prevalent in legacy systems and poorly maintained codebases.