CVE-2008-0567 in ChronoForms
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in ChronoEngine ChronoForms (com_chronocontact) 2.3.5 component for Joomla! allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter to (1) PPS/File.php, (2) Writer.php, and (3) PPS.php in excelwriter/; and (4) BIFFwriter.php, (5) Workbook.php, (6) Worksheet.php, and (7) Format.php in excelwriter/Writer/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0567 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting the ChronoEngine ChronoForms component version 2.3.5 for Joomla! platforms. This vulnerability resides within the excelwriter directory of the affected component and impacts multiple PHP files including PPS/File.php, Writer.php, PPS.php, BIFFwriter.php, Workbook.php, Worksheet.php, and Format.php. The flaw stems from improper input validation and sanitization of the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, which allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that are then processed as PHP code execution points.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the inherent trust model within the Joomla with the specific ChronoForms component installed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete remote code execution capabilities on affected systems. Once exploited, attackers can upload and execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor access. The vulnerability affects not just individual applications but entire web server infrastructures, as the exploited component is part of a widely used Joomla! extension. The attack surface extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential privilege escalation, lateral movement within networks, and establishment of persistent access points. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and represents a classic example of a remote code execution vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0567 require immediate action including upgrading to patched versions of the ChronoForms component, implementing input validation measures, and applying web application firewalls to filter malicious inputs. Organizations should disable the vulnerable component until patches are applied and consider implementing strict parameter validation for all user-supplied inputs. The remediation process should include comprehensive security auditing of all Joomla! installations to identify similar vulnerabilities and ensure proper configuration of the php.ini settings to disable remote file inclusion. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and monitoring mechanisms can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for remote code execution through web shells and command injection attacks.