CVE-2007-6289 in SerWeb
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in SerWeb 2.0.0 dev1 and earlier allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) _SERWEB[configdir] parameter to load_lang.php, (2) _SERWEB[functionsdir] parameter to main_prepend.php, and the (3) _PHPLIB[libdir] parameter to load_phplib.php, different vectors than CVE-2007-3359 and CVE-2007-3358.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/12/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2007-6289 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting SerWeb 2.0.0 development version and earlier installations. This vulnerability exists within the web application's configuration handling mechanisms where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper validation or sanitization. The affected parameters operate within three distinct PHP scripts that demonstrate poor input validation practices, creating multiple attack vectors for remote code execution. The vulnerability specifically targets configuration variables that control directory paths used for loading language files, function libraries, and PHP library components, making it particularly dangerous as it can affect core application functionality and potentially allow attackers to escalate privileges or gain complete system control.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize user input before using it in include or require statements. When attackers provide malicious URLs through the _SERWEB[configdir] parameter in load_lang.php, _SERWEB[functionsdir] parameter in main_prepend.php, or _PHPLIB[libdir] parameter in load_phplib.php, the application treats these inputs as legitimate paths and attempts to include the specified files. This creates a classic remote file inclusion vulnerability where an attacker can inject arbitrary PHP code by pointing to a remote server hosting malicious content. The vulnerability operates at the application logic level, specifically in the configuration loading and inclusion mechanisms, and can be categorized under CWE-88 as "Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command" and CWE-94 as "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server with the privileges of the web application. This can result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy web shells, establish persistent backdoors, or use the compromised server for further attacks against other systems. The three distinct attack vectors increase the probability of successful exploitation and provide multiple opportunities for attackers to bypass potential security controls. Additionally, the vulnerability's impact extends beyond immediate code execution as it can be used to manipulate application behavior, access sensitive data, and potentially cause denial of service conditions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-6289 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. The primary recommendation involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Applications should utilize whitelisting approaches for directory paths, reject any input containing protocol identifiers, and implement proper parameter validation before any file inclusion occurs. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for web application users, disable remote file inclusion features in PHP configurations, and ensure that all applications are updated to patched versions. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" and T1059.007 "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP" as attackers exploit the application's vulnerability to execute malicious code. Regular security assessments, input validation testing, and maintaining updated security patches form essential components of a comprehensive defense strategy against such remote file inclusion vulnerabilities.