CVE-2007-5168 in ClanLite
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in ClanLite 1.23.01.2005 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the root_path parameter to (1) modules/serveur_jeux.php or (2) conf/conf-php.php. NOTE: vector 1 is disputed by CVE because the require_once is only reached when a certain constant has already been defined.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/13/2017
The vulnerability CVE-2007-5168 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting ClanLite version 1.23.01.2005, specifically targeting PHP applications through insecure file inclusion mechanisms. This vulnerability resides in the application's handling of user-supplied input within the root_path parameter, which is processed in two distinct script files: modules/serveur_jeux.php and conf/conf-php.php. The flaw exploits the fundamental weakness in PHP's include and require functions when they receive unvalidated input from external sources, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The security implications extend beyond simple code execution, as this vulnerability can enable attackers to gain full control over the affected system and potentially escalate privileges within the network infrastructure.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically highlighting the dangerous practice of incorporating user-controllable input directly into file inclusion directives. The vulnerability operates through a classic remote file inclusion attack vector where an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the root_path parameter, causing the PHP application to include and execute the remote file. In the case of vector 1, the require_once function is only triggered when a specific constant has already been defined, making this particular exploit path disputed by CVE, yet still representing a valid security concern that could be leveraged through alternative attack vectors or by manipulating the application state. This behavior demonstrates the complex interplay between application logic and security controls, where seemingly innocuous conditional statements can create exploitable pathways when combined with improper input validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple data theft or service disruption, as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Successful exploitation allows adversaries to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to data breaches, system infiltration, and lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability affects organizations running ClanLite applications, particularly those that have not applied security patches or updates, making it a significant concern for legacy systems that may continue to operate without proper maintenance. Additionally, the nature of remote file inclusion vulnerabilities makes them particularly dangerous because they can be exploited from anywhere on the internet, requiring minimal reconnaissance and often allowing for automated exploitation through scanning tools that target known vulnerable applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5168 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities. The primary fix involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-controllable parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Organizations should disable remote file inclusion capabilities entirely by setting the allow_url_fopen and allow_url_include directives to off in php.ini configurations, effectively preventing PHP from including files from remote locations. Additionally, input validation should enforce strict whitelisting of acceptable values for the root_path parameter, ensuring that only predefined, trusted paths are accepted. Security measures should also include implementing proper access controls and monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework under T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other applications, while application developers should adopt secure coding practices that eliminate the use of user-controllable input in file inclusion directives, thereby preventing future occurrences of this class of vulnerability.