CVE-2007-5175 in actSite
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability lib/base.php in actSite 1.991 Beta allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the BaseCfg[BaseDir] parameter.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5175 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the actSite content management system version 1.991 Beta, specifically within the lib/base.php component. This vulnerability arises from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to adequately restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. The flaw manifests when the application processes the BaseCfg[BaseDir] parameter without sufficient validation, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that point to remote malicious code repositories.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression. When the application accepts the BaseCfg[BaseDir] parameter and uses it directly in a file inclusion context such as include() or require(), attackers can manipulate this parameter to reference external URLs. This creates a scenario where the web server retrieves and executes PHP code from remote locations, effectively granting remote code execution capabilities to unauthenticated attackers. The vulnerability operates at the intersection of CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code, and CWE-20, which addresses improper input validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, adversaries can upload additional malicious files, establish persistent backdoors, and potentially escalate privileges within the compromised environment. The vulnerability affects the availability, integrity, and confidentiality of the system, as demonstrated by the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can operate from any location without requiring physical access or prior authentication, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in production environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5175 should focus on immediate patching of the actSite application to version 1.991 or later, as this vulnerability was addressed in subsequent releases. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures that prevent URL schemes from being accepted in configuration parameters, particularly those used for file inclusion operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that web server processes operate with minimal required permissions and that file inclusion functions are properly sanitized. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be configured to block suspicious URL patterns and parameter values that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of input sanitization and the dangers of dynamic code execution in web applications, aligning with security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.