CVE-2008-1963 in Grape Web Statistics
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/functions.php in Quate Grape Web Statistics 0.2a allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the location parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2024
The CVE-2008-1963 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in Quate Grape Web Statistics version 0.2a that exposes systems to arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability specifically targets the includes/functions.php file where improper input validation allows attackers to inject malicious URLs through the location parameter. The flaw enables remote threat actors to leverage the application's file inclusion mechanisms to execute unauthorized PHP code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of server-side include attacks and represents a significant security risk for web applications that fail to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes user-provided location parameter values without adequate sanitization or validation. Attackers can craft malicious URLs that, when processed by the vulnerable includes/functions.php script, result in the inclusion of remote malicious PHP files. This process typically involves manipulating the location parameter to point to attacker-controlled web resources, which are then executed within the context of the web server process. The vulnerability stems from a lack of proper input validation and secure coding practices, specifically failing to implement proper parameter sanitization and access control measures. The flaw demonstrates a classic example of insecure direct object reference and improper input handling, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that dynamically include files based on user input.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-1963 extends far beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and persistent backdoor access. Attackers can use this vulnerability to install web shells, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify application behavior, or establish persistent access points within the target environment. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected web application and underlying infrastructure. Organizations running Quate Grape Web Statistics 0.2a are at risk of data breaches, unauthorized system access, and potential lateral movement within their network. This vulnerability also represents a significant risk to web application security posture and can facilitate more complex attack chains involving privilege escalation and data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching and implementation of secure coding practices. The primary remediation involves updating to a patched version of Quate Grape Web Statistics that properly validates and sanitizes all user input parameters. Organizations should implement input validation controls that reject or escape special characters in URL parameters, particularly those that could enable file inclusion attacks. The implementation of proper parameter sanitization techniques, including the use of allowlists for acceptable input values and proper URL encoding, can prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. Security measures should also include disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration and implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting this specific vulnerability. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-98 and CWE-20 categories related to improper input validation and insecure file handling, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege and secure input processing that should be enforced in all web application development practices.