CVE-2007-5754 in urlinn
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in urlinn_includes/config.php in phpFaber URLInn 2.0.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the dir_ws parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-5754 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in phpFaber URLInn version 2.0.5 that exposes systems to arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability specifically affects the urlinn_includes/config.php file where the application fails to properly validate user input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The flaw exists within the dir_ws parameter handling mechanism, which allows malicious actors to inject external URLs that get processed as PHP include directives.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-88, known as "Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command" and CWE-94, "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')." The issue stems from inadequate input sanitization and validation practices within the application's configuration handling routines. When the dir_ws parameter receives a URL value, the system does not properly filter or validate this input before using it in include operations, creating an exploitable path for remote attackers to inject malicious PHP code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms. The vulnerability affects web applications running phpFaber URLInn 2.0.5 and similar versions that implement comparable file inclusion patterns without proper input validation. Attackers can construct malicious URLs that, when passed through the dir_ws parameter, result in the inclusion of remote PHP scripts hosted on attacker-controlled servers.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP." The exploitation process typically involves crafting a malicious URL that includes PHP code execution directives, which then gets included and executed by the vulnerable application. This attack vector represents a common pattern in web application vulnerabilities where improper input handling leads to code injection opportunities. The vulnerability also relates to T1505.003 "Server Software Component: Web Shell" as attackers can deploy web shells through this vector to maintain persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5754 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected phpFaber URLInn version to the latest available release that addresses this vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures that reject or escape any URL parameters before they are used in file inclusion operations. The implementation of allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives should be carefully reviewed and restricted to prevent remote file inclusion attacks. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems can help detect and block malicious requests targeting this vulnerability. Regular security assessments and code reviews should focus on input validation patterns to prevent similar issues in other applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege in web application development to prevent such dangerous injection flaws.