CVE-2008-1043 in php User Base
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in templates/default/header.inc.php in Linux Web Shop (LWS) php User Base 1.3 BETA allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the menu parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1043 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Linux Web Shop php User Base 1.3 BETA application. This vulnerability exists in the templates/default/header.inc.php file where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input parameters. The specific issue occurs when the menu parameter is passed to the application, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that are then included and executed as PHP code. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and sanitization that enables attackers to manipulate the application's include functionality.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a malicious URL that targets the vulnerable menu parameter in the application's request handling. When the application processes this parameter without proper validation, it attempts to include the specified remote file, executing any PHP code contained within that file. This creates a pathway for arbitrary code execution on the vulnerable server, potentially allowing attackers to gain full control over the web application and underlying system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it highly attractive to malicious actors. The flaw directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote file inclusion to execute malicious code on target systems, and T1059, which covers the execution of commands through web applications.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-1043 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data breaches. Once an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can establish persistent access to the compromised system, potentially using the server as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the web application's data, as attackers can read sensitive information, modify content, or install backdoors. Organizations running the affected Linux Web Shop version face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data loss. The vulnerability also impacts the availability of the service, as attackers can potentially disrupt normal operations through malicious code execution.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary fix involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in include statements. Developers should employ whitelisting approaches where only predefined valid menu options are accepted, or implement strict validation that rejects any input containing URLs or special characters. Additionally, the application should be configured to disable remote file inclusion features entirely, using php.ini settings such as allow_url_include = Off. Security hardening measures include implementing proper access controls, regular security audits, and input validation at multiple layers of the application architecture. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring systems to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The remediation process should follow security best practices outlined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for secure web application development, ensuring that similar vulnerabilities are prevented in future releases and updates.