CVE-2007-5772 in Flatnuke3
Summary
by MITRE
Direct static code injection vulnerability in the download module in Flatnuke 3 allows remote authenticated administrators to inject arbitrary PHP code into a description.it.php file in a subdirectory of Download/ by saving a description and setting fneditmode to 1. NOTE: unauthenticated remote attackers can exploit this by leveraging a cookie manipulation issue.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/09/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2007-5772 represents a critical direct static code injection flaw within the download module of Flatnuke 3 content management system. This weakness exists in the way the application handles user input during file description modifications, specifically when processing the fneditmode parameter. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-94 weakness, which encompasses the execution of arbitrary code due to improper handling of untrusted data. Attackers can exploit this issue to inject malicious PHP code directly into the description.it.php file located within the Download/ subdirectory structure.
The technical exploitation mechanism involves authenticated administrators manipulating the fneditmode parameter to 1 while saving file descriptions, which triggers the injection of arbitrary PHP code into the target file. This creates a persistent code execution vector that allows attackers to execute malicious commands on the web server. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that unauthenticated remote attackers can also exploit this weakness through cookie manipulation techniques, effectively bypassing authentication requirements. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers without requiring legitimate credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code injection, as it provides attackers with full control over the affected web server. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive data, modify files, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The injection occurs directly into the description.it.php file, which means the malicious code becomes part of the legitimate application codebase, making detection more difficult. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, specifically PHP, and represents a classic path to privilege escalation and system compromise. The attack vector demonstrates a path to lateral movement and persistence within the compromised environment.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5772 require immediate patching of the Flatnuke 3 application to address the code injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms to prevent arbitrary PHP code injection into system files. The recommended approach includes implementing strict parameter validation for fneditmode and other user-controllable inputs, employing secure coding practices to prevent direct code execution from user-supplied data, and implementing proper access controls to restrict file modification capabilities. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their web applications to identify similar injection vulnerabilities, as this weakness may indicate broader issues with input handling and code execution processes. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure session management and cookie handling to prevent unauthorized access through cookie manipulation techniques.