CVE-2008-2016 in ChiCoMaS
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in Chilek Content Management System (aka ChiCoMaS) 2.0.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the lang parameter to the default URI under install/. NOTE: this can also be leveraged to include and execute arbitrary local files via directory traversal sequences.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/23/2018
The CVE-2008-2016 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Chilek Content Management System version 2.0.4 that exposes the application to arbitrary code execution attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets the installation directory structure where the application fails to properly validate user input parameters, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote threat actors to inject malicious code through the lang parameter. The vulnerability resides within the default URI path under the install/ directory, making it particularly dangerous as it targets the installation phase where the system is most exposed and less protected. The flaw enables attackers to execute PHP code remotely by manipulating the lang parameter with a URL, effectively bypassing normal security controls and gaining unauthorized access to the system's execution environment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an input data stream or command, and CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code. The vulnerability exploits the application's failure to sanitize input parameters, particularly when processing the lang parameter in the installation context. Attackers can leverage directory traversal sequences to include local files, expanding the attack surface beyond just remote file inclusion to encompass local file inclusion as well. This dual nature of the vulnerability makes it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through multiple vectors, increasing the probability of successful compromise. The vulnerability is classified under the ATT&CK framework as T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries target application vulnerabilities to gain initial access to systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows complete system compromise through remote code execution, potentially enabling attackers to gain full administrative control over the affected server. The vulnerability can be exploited without authentication, making it particularly dangerous for systems that are publicly accessible. Successful exploitation could lead to data breaches, system infiltration, and further lateral movement within the network. The installation directory context makes this vulnerability especially critical as it targets the initial setup phase where proper security controls may not yet be fully implemented. Organizations using this version of ChiCoMaS face significant risk of unauthorized access and potential data loss, as the vulnerability can be leveraged to execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of the affected system to the latest available version that addresses this vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent parameter manipulation, ensuring that all user-supplied inputs are properly validated before being processed. The application should be configured to restrict file inclusion operations to predefined, trusted locations only, and directory traversal sequences should be strictly prohibited. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to limit access to installation directories from untrusted networks. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other applications and systems. The principle of least privilege should be enforced, ensuring that the web server operates with minimal required permissions and that sensitive directories are properly protected. System monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file inclusion patterns and unauthorized access attempts to installation directories.