CVE-2008-2128 in CMS Faethon
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in templates/header.php in CMS Faethon 2.2 Ultimate allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mainpath parameter, a different vulnerability than CVE-2006-5588 and CVE-2006-3185.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2024
The CVE-2008-2128 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw discovered in CMS Faethon 2.2 Ultimate, specifically within the templates/header.php file. This vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code by manipulating the mainpath parameter through a URL, creating a significant security risk for affected systems. The flaw demonstrates the dangerous consequences of improper input validation and dynamic file inclusion practices within web applications, particularly content management systems that rely on user-supplied parameters for path resolution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize and validate the mainpath parameter before using it in file inclusion operations. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL as the mainpath value, the system blindly includes and executes the remote file, bypassing normal security controls and access restrictions. This represents a classic remote code execution vulnerability that aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code. The vulnerability operates at the application layer where user input directly influences file system operations, making it particularly dangerous as it can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to the underlying server infrastructure. An attacker could leverage this flaw to upload malicious files, establish backdoors, escalate privileges, or extract sensitive data from the compromised system. The vulnerability's classification as a remote file inclusion issue places it within the ATT&CK framework under T1190 for Exploit Public-Facing Application, demonstrating how attackers can exploit web application flaws to achieve persistent access. The fact that this vulnerability is distinct from CVE-2006-5588 and CVE-2006-3185 indicates a separate code path or implementation flaw, suggesting that the CMS Faethon 2.2 Ultimate had multiple entry points for remote code execution attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2128 should focus on immediate patching and implementation of input validation controls. Organizations must ensure that all user-supplied parameters undergo strict sanitization and validation before being used in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach includes disabling remote file inclusion features, implementing whitelisting for valid paths, and using absolute path references instead of user-controllable variables. Security measures should also include regular security assessments, network monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns, and implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests. Additionally, system administrators should consider applying the principle of least privilege, restricting file inclusion capabilities to only essential functions and ensuring that the application runs with minimal required permissions to limit potential damage from exploitation attempts.