CVE-2008-0138 in Xoopsgallery Module
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in xoopsgallery/init_basic.php in the mod_gallery module for XOOPS, when register_globals is disabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the GALLERY_BASEDIR parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/13/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0138 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the mod_gallery module of the XOOPS content management system. This vulnerability specifically affects installations where the register_globals PHP configuration setting is disabled, which is considered a security best practice in modern web environments. The flaw exists in the xoopsgallery/init_basic.php file, which processes user-supplied input without proper validation or sanitization, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-88 as a command injection flaw, where attacker-controlled input is directly incorporated into the application's execution flow without adequate security controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the manipulation of the GALLERY_BASEDIR parameter, which is processed in the init_basic.php file. When an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the GALLERY_BASEDIR value, the application fails to validate the input and instead incorporates it directly into the file inclusion mechanism. This allows the attacker to specify any remote URL that contains malicious PHP code, which gets executed on the target server with the privileges of the web application. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and proper parameter sanitization, which are fundamental security practices that should prevent such scenarios from occurring. The attack vector specifically targets the PHP include mechanism, making it a remote code execution vulnerability that can lead to complete server compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised server. Once successfully exploited, attackers can establish backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks against the internal network. The vulnerability affects the entire XOOPS ecosystem, particularly installations that rely on the mod_gallery module, and represents a significant risk to organizations that have not updated their systems to address this known security flaw. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be automated, making it particularly dangerous for widespread deployment. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically focusing on PHP script execution.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The primary solution involves updating the mod_gallery module to a patched version that properly validates and sanitizes the GALLERY_BASEDIR parameter before processing. Organizations should also implement input validation controls at multiple layers, including web application firewalls and proper parameter handling within the application code. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary PHP functions, implementing proper access controls, and ensuring that register_globals remains disabled in production environments. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper security coding practices and input validation, which are essential components of secure software development lifecycle processes. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other modules and ensure that all third-party components are kept up to date with the latest security patches.