CVE-2008-1876 in VisualPic
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in VisualPic 0.3.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the _CONFIG[files][functions_page] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/20/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-1876 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in VisualPic version 0.3.1, a web-based image gallery application. This vulnerability exists within the index.php file and specifically targets the _CONFIG[files][functions_page] parameter, which is susceptible to manipulation by remote attackers. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's parameter handling logic, enabling attackers to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted URL inputs.
This security weakness 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 due to improper input validation. The vulnerability follows the ATT&CK technique T1190, known as "Exploit Public-Facing Application," where adversaries target applications accessible from the internet to gain initial access to systems. The flaw operates by allowing attackers to supply a URL in the functions_page parameter that points to malicious PHP code hosted on an external server, which then gets included and executed by the vulnerable application. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without requiring authentication or prior access to the system, making it an attractive target for automated attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, potentially enabling attackers to gain full control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation could lead to data theft, system compromise, and the establishment of persistent backdoors within the network. Attackers might leverage this vulnerability to deploy web shells, exfiltrate sensitive information, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks against internal network resources. The vulnerability affects systems running VisualPic 0.3.1 where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input parameters before using them in file inclusion operations. This creates a pathway for attackers to bypass normal access controls and execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process, potentially leading to complete system takeover.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of several security measures. The most effective approach involves applying the vendor-provided patch or upgrading to a newer version of VisualPic that addresses this flaw. In the absence of an immediate patch, administrators should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent malicious URLs from being processed by the application. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting the web server's capabilities and ensuring that only necessary files are accessible through the application. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious URL patterns can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and access control measures should be strengthened to limit the potential damage from successful exploitation. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other applications and ensure comprehensive protection against remote file inclusion attacks.