CVE-2008-0283 in DomPHP
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in /aides/index.php in DomPHP 0.81 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the page parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0283 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the DomPHP 0.81 software suite, specifically affecting the /aides/index.php component. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. The flaw manifests when the application accepts a page parameter that is subsequently used in a require or include statement without adequate sanitization, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-98 as "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" within the context of web application exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate the page parameter through HTTP requests, enabling them to specify external URLs that contain malicious PHP code. When the application processes this parameter, it directly includes the specified file, executing any PHP code contained within without proper validation or sanitization. This creates a persistent threat vector where remote attackers can leverage the vulnerability to establish backdoors, execute system commands, or gain unauthorized access to the underlying server infrastructure. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the application layer, allowing attackers to potentially escalate privileges and move laterally within the network environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with substantial control over the affected system. Successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential use as a foothold for broader network infiltration. The vulnerability affects organizations running DomPHP 0.81 or earlier versions, making it a significant concern for web applications that have not been properly updated or patched. The risk is amplified by the fact that the vulnerability can be exploited through standard web browser interactions, requiring minimal technical expertise to leverage effectively.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0283 must focus on immediate patching of the affected software to version 0.82 or later, which includes proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict input validation measures that reject any non-numeric or non-alphanumeric characters in the page parameter, as well as employ whitelisting approaches that only permit predefined safe values. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, while disabling remote file inclusion capabilities in PHP configurations serves as a secondary mitigation approach. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper secure coding practices, as outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines, emphasizing that all user-supplied data must be rigorously validated before being processed by the application.