CVE-2007-5314 in xKiosk WEB
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in system/funcs/xkurl.php in xKiosk WEB 3.0.1i, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the PEARPATH parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-5314 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the xKiosk WEB 3.0.1i web application that leverages the dangerous combination of PHP's register_globals directive and improper input validation. This vulnerability resides within the system/funcs/xkurl.php file and specifically targets the PEARPATH parameter, creating a pathway for remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected server. The flaw demonstrates a classic example of insecure parameter handling where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper sanitization or validation, making it a prime candidate for exploitation in web application attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires that the target server has register_globals enabled, a configuration that was commonly found in older PHP installations and represents a significant security risk. When register_globals is active, PHP automatically creates global variables from GET, POST, and cookie data, effectively bypassing normal variable scope restrictions. Attackers can manipulate the PEARPATH parameter to include malicious URLs, which are then processed by the vulnerable xkurl.php script. This creates a scenario where remote code execution becomes possible, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the web server with the privileges of the web application user. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically highlighting how parameter manipulation can lead to code injection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation can result in data theft, server compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not need physical access to the system, and the attack can be executed from anywhere on the internet. Organizations using xKiosk WEB 3.0.1i with register_globals enabled face immediate risk of compromise, as the vulnerability can be exploited through simple HTTP requests without requiring authentication or specialized tools. This makes it particularly dangerous for public-facing web applications and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege in system security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5314 must address both the immediate exploitation vector and the underlying configuration issues that enable the vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves disabling the register_globals directive in PHP configuration, which effectively eliminates the core condition required for exploitation. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization techniques should be enforced throughout the application code, particularly in parameter handling functions. The xKiosk WEB application should be updated to a newer version that addresses this vulnerability, as version 3.0.1i is outdated and likely contains other unpatched security issues. Security controls should include input validation that prevents URL inclusion in parameters, output encoding, and the implementation of a web application firewall to detect and block malicious requests. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege by restricting web server permissions and establishing proper access controls for system resources. This vulnerability serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper PHP configuration management and the dangers of legacy code that does not follow modern security best practices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation through remote services and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage.