CVE-2008-1712 in mxBB
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/functions_weblog.php in mxBB mx_blogs 2.0.0 beta allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mx_root_path parameter.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1712 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the mxBB mx_blogs 2.0.0 beta software, specifically affecting the includes/functions_weblog.php component. This issue falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The flaw resides in how the application processes the mx_root_path parameter, which is susceptible to manipulation through remote URL inclusion attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the mx_root_path parameter to the vulnerable script. The application fails to properly validate or sanitize this input, allowing the remote file inclusion to proceed. When the vulnerable code attempts to include the specified path, it executes the remote PHP code, thereby granting the attacker complete control over the affected system. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code due to improper input handling.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform complete system compromise. Once an attacker successfully exploits this flaw, they can establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify system files, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects any system running the vulnerable mxBB mx_blogs version, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users interact with the application. This issue aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in remote services, and T1059, which covers execution through scripting.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1712 require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures. System administrators should disable remote file inclusion features within PHP configurations by setting allow_url_fopen and allow_url_include directives to off. Additionally, the vulnerable mxBB mx_blogs version must be updated to a patched release that properly validates all user-supplied input. Input filtering should be implemented at multiple layers, including application-level validation of the mx_root_path parameter and strict whitelisting of acceptable paths. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit the attack surface, while regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other applications. The remediation process should also include monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns and implementing proper access controls to prevent unauthorized modifications to critical system files.