CVE-2007-5889 in IDMOS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in IDMOS 1.0 Alpha (aka Phoenix) allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the site_absolute_path parameter to (1) admin.php, (2) menu_add.php, and (3) menu_operation.php in administrator/, different vectors than CVE-2007-5294.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2022
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-5889 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting IDMOS 1.0 Alpha (also known as Phoenix), a content management system that was widely used in web applications during the early 2000s. This vulnerability specifically targets the administrator section of the application and exposes multiple attack vectors through the site_absolute_path parameter. The flaw allows remote attackers to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code by manipulating URL parameters, creating a severe security risk that could lead to complete system compromise. The vulnerability operates under the broader category of insecure direct object references and remote code execution, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that rely on dynamic file inclusion mechanisms. This issue is classified under CWE-88, which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and falls within the ATT&CK framework under T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, specifically targeting the execution of malicious code through web application vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's improper handling of user-supplied input within the site_absolute_path parameter. When administrators access files such as admin.php, menu_add.php, or menu_operation.php located in the administrator directory, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the URL values passed through this parameter. This lack of input validation creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting malicious PHP code. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects multiple entry points within the administrative interface, amplifying the potential attack surface and providing attackers with several pathways to achieve their objectives. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to bypass normal access controls and execute arbitrary code on the target server with the privileges of the web application, potentially leading to complete system takeover.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-5889 extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a comprehensive foothold within the target environment. Once exploited, attackers can establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify content, or even use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks against other systems. The vulnerability's presence in the administrator interface means that successful exploitation could lead to complete administrative control over the CMS, enabling attackers to modify user accounts, delete content, or alter the application's functionality. This risk is compounded by the fact that the vulnerability affects multiple files within the admin directory, providing attackers with multiple opportunities to achieve their objectives. The impact is particularly severe for organizations relying on IDMOS 1.0 Alpha, as this vulnerability could lead to data breaches, service disruption, and potential compliance violations. The vulnerability's classification under CWE-88 indicates that it involves improper handling of special elements in OS commands, making it a significant concern for system security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-5889 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability through proper input validation and sanitization. Organizations should implement strict parameter validation for all user-supplied inputs, particularly those used in file inclusion operations, to prevent attackers from injecting malicious URLs. The recommended approach involves implementing whitelisting mechanisms that only permit predefined, trusted paths for file inclusion operations. Additionally, administrators should disable the use of remote file inclusion features and ensure that all file paths are validated against a strict set of acceptable values. Security patches should be applied immediately if available, or the application should be upgraded to a newer version that addresses this vulnerability. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection by monitoring for suspicious URL patterns and blocking attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Organizations should also conduct thorough security assessments to identify any other instances of similar vulnerabilities within their web applications, as the underlying issue represents a common pattern that could affect other systems using similar file inclusion mechanisms. The ATT&CK framework suggests implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation, while also ensuring that all administrative interfaces are protected through strong authentication mechanisms and regular security updates.