CVE-2008-0448 in phpSearch
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in utils/class_HTTPRetriever.php in phpSearch allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the libcurlemuinc parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0448 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the phpSearch application's utility component. This vulnerability exists in the utils/class_HTTPRetriever.php file where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input parameters. The specific parameter affected is libcurlemuinc which accepts URL values that are then processed by the application's HTTP retrieval mechanisms. When an attacker crafts a malicious URL and injects it into this parameter, the application blindly includes and executes the remote content without proper validation, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution on the target system.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes the weakness of allowing command injection through improper input validation, and CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code due to insufficient input sanitization. The flaw operates under the principle that user-controllable data is directly used in system operations without adequate security checks, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that process external inputs. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution issue because attackers can leverage this flaw from outside the network perimeter to gain control over the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This allows for unauthorized access to sensitive data, privilege escalation, and the ability to establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including web browser-based attacks, automated scanning tools, or social engineering techniques that trick users into visiting malicious URLs. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or local network credentials to perform the attack, making it particularly attractive to cybercriminals.
The attack surface for this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to include potential data breaches, service disruption, and system availability issues. Attackers can leverage this flaw to download and execute malicious payloads, establish command and control channels, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks against other networked systems. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which describes the execution of code through various methods including remote file inclusion attacks, and T1071, which covers the use of application layer protocols for command and control communications. Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including input validation, parameter sanitization, and disabling remote file inclusion features in their applications.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0448 should focus on implementing robust input validation mechanisms that prevent malicious URLs from being processed by the application. The most effective immediate solution involves disabling the use of remote URLs in the libcurlemuinc parameter and implementing strict validation of all input parameters. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, the phpSearch application should be updated to a patched version that properly validates and sanitizes all user inputs before processing them. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other application components, and system administrators should monitor for suspicious network activity that might indicate exploitation attempts. The implementation of proper access controls and least privilege principles can also limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.