CVE-2008-1773 in Dragoon
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/header.inc.php in Dragoon 0.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the root parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1773 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Dragoon 0.1 content management system, specifically affecting the includes/header.inc.php file. This weakness stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters before incorporating them into dynamic file inclusion operations. The vulnerability manifests when the application processes the root parameter without sufficient sanitization, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that are subsequently executed as PHP code within the application context.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically to CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The flaw operates under the principle of code injection where attacker-controlled data flows into the application's file inclusion mechanism, enabling remote code execution capabilities. The attack vector leverages the PHP include or require functions, which are commonly used for modular code organization but become dangerous when user input is not properly validated or escaped before being passed to these functions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to gain full control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation allows malicious users to upload and execute arbitrary PHP scripts, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire web application environment, as attackers can manipulate the application's behavior to their advantage. From an attacker's perspective, this represents a high-value target since it provides a direct path to remote system compromise without requiring prior authentication or access to the system.
Security practitioners should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability. The primary mitigation involves sanitizing all user inputs, particularly those used in file inclusion operations, through proper validation and escaping techniques. Applications should avoid using user-supplied data directly in include or require statements, instead implementing whitelisting mechanisms that only allow pre-approved values. The implementation of input validation frameworks and the use of secure coding practices such as those recommended in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices guide can significantly reduce the risk of similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by running web applications with minimal required permissions and implementing proper access controls to limit the damage that could result from successful exploitation. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote file inclusion for code execution, and demonstrates how legacy vulnerabilities in content management systems can continue to pose significant security risks in modern environments.