CVE-2007-5215 in GodSend
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Jacob Hinkle GodSend 0.6 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the SCRIPT_DIR parameter to (1) gtk/main.inc.php or (2) cmdline.inc.php. NOTE: vector 2 is disputed by CVE because it is contained in unaccessible code, requiring that two undefined constants be equal.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/13/2017
The CVE-2007-5215 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting Jacob Hinkle GodSend version 0.6, demonstrating a fundamental security weakness in PHP application design that enables remote code execution. This vulnerability exists due to improper input validation and dynamic file inclusion practices within the application's codebase, specifically targeting the SCRIPT_DIR parameter in two key files. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that get processed as file paths, creating an attack vector that can be exploited from remote locations without authentication. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it affects core application functionality files, making it particularly dangerous for system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's reliance on user-supplied input for dynamic file inclusion operations, which violates established security principles for input sanitization and validation. When the SCRIPT_DIR parameter is passed to gtk/main.inc.php or cmdline.inc.php, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize this input before using it in file inclusion contexts. This creates an environment where attackers can manipulate the parameter to reference external URLs containing malicious PHP code. The vulnerability maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of command and control operations. The flaw also aligns with CWE-94, representing improper control of generation of code, as the application generates executable code based on untrusted input. The attack vector follows patterns consistent with the ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in remote services to execute code on target systems.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-5215 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within network environments. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to data theft, system infiltration, or deployment of additional malware. The vulnerability's location in core application files means that a successful attack could provide attackers with complete control over the application's functionality and potentially the underlying server. Organizations running affected versions of GodSend would face significant risks including unauthorized data access, service disruption, and potential compliance violations. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet, making it particularly concerning for publicly accessible web applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5215 should focus on immediate application patching and input validation improvements, though the specific vulnerability requires careful attention to the disputed vector mentioned in the CVE description. Organizations should implement strict input validation for all parameters that influence file inclusion operations, ensuring that only predefined safe values are accepted. The recommended approach includes disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in PHP configuration, using allow_url_include = Off in php.ini, and implementing proper parameter sanitization routines. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. The fix should involve replacing dynamic file inclusion with static configuration-based approaches, ensuring that file paths are determined through safe, predefined logic rather than user input. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file inclusion patterns and parameter manipulation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping all third-party applications updated and following secure coding practices that prevent user-supplied input from influencing critical system operations, aligning with the principle of least privilege and defense in depth strategies.