CVE-2007-5388 in WebDesktop
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in WebDesktop 0.1 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) app parameter to apps/apps.php and the (2) wsk parameter to wsk/wsk.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5388 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting WebDesktop 0.1, a web-based desktop environment software. This issue stems from improper input validation and insecure parameter handling within the application's core components. The vulnerability manifests through two distinct attack vectors that exploit the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into dynamic PHP file inclusion operations.
The technical exploitation occurs through two specific parameters within the WebDesktop application's file structure. The first vulnerability targets the app parameter in apps/apps.php, while the second affects the wsk parameter in wsk/wsk.php. Both flaws demonstrate classic remote file inclusion (RFI) vulnerabilities that fall under CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression context. These vulnerabilities allow attackers to inject malicious URLs that get processed by PHP's include or require functions, effectively enabling arbitrary code execution on the target server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Once exploited, adversaries can execute arbitrary PHP code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to full system compromise. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003, which covers web shell deployment through remote file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability creates an ideal attack surface for persistent access, data exfiltration, and further network reconnaissance activities.
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the application's reliance on user input for dynamic file inclusion without proper sanitization or validation. This pattern violates fundamental security principles and demonstrates poor input handling practices that are commonly exploited in web application attacks. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal prerequisites, as attackers only need to craft malicious URLs and inject them through the vulnerable parameters. This makes the attack surface particularly dangerous in environments where the application is accessible to untrusted users or exposed to the internet without proper network segmentation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5388 should focus on immediate input validation and parameter sanitization. Organizations must implement strict input filtering mechanisms that prevent the inclusion of external URLs in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach includes disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration, implementing proper parameter validation, and using allowlists for acceptable input values. Additionally, web application firewalls should be configured to detect and block suspicious URL patterns targeting these specific parameters. This vulnerability serves as a prime example of why secure coding practices, including proper input validation and the principle of least privilege, are essential in preventing remote code execution attacks. The issue also highlights the importance of regularly updating and patching web applications to address known vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors.