CVE-2008-0137 in PHP CLASSIFIEDS
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in config.inc.php in SNETWORKS PHP CLASSIFIEDS 5.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the path_escape parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-0137 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the SNETWORKS PHP CLASSIFIEDS 5.0 web application. This security weakness exists in the config.inc.php file where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input parameters. The specific vulnerability manifests when the path_escape parameter receives a URL value that the application then attempts to include or require as a PHP file. This behavior creates an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious PHP code through carefully crafted URLs that are processed by the application's include mechanism. The flaw fundamentally stems from the application's trust in user-supplied input without adequate validation or sanitization, making it susceptible to exploitation by remote threat actors.
From a technical perspective this vulnerability maps directly to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of code injection through file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability operates under the principle that the application processes user-controllable input through include or require statements without proper input validation, allowing attackers to manipulate the execution flow of the application. When an attacker supplies a URL in the path_escape parameter, the PHP interpreter treats this URL as a valid file path and attempts to execute the code contained within it. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of remote code execution flaws and demonstrates a classic lack of input sanitization in web applications. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target server with the privileges of the web application, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-0137 extends far beyond simple data theft or service disruption. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, and gain access to sensitive system resources including databases, file systems, and network services. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not need physical access to the target system, allowing them to operate from anywhere on the internet. This vulnerability can lead to complete server compromise, data exfiltration, and potential use as a launching point for further attacks within a network. Organizations running vulnerable versions of SNETWORKS PHP CLASSIFIEDS face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential regulatory violations, particularly in environments where data protection and privacy compliance are required. The exploitation of such vulnerabilities can also result in service downtime, reputational damage, and financial losses due to potential data breaches and system recovery costs.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate fix involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in include or require statements. This approach aligns with the principle of least privilege and input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security practices. Organizations should also implement proper parameter validation to ensure that only expected file paths are accepted, and any attempt to include external URLs should be strictly prohibited. Additional measures include disabling the ability to include remote files through configuration settings, implementing proper access controls, and employing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious requests. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices such as those defined in the CERT Secure Coding Standards and ATT&CK framework techniques related to command and control communications. Regular security assessments, code reviews, and keeping software updated are essential practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced into web applications. Organizations should also consider implementing automated security testing tools and establishing incident response procedures to quickly address any exploitation attempts.