CVE-2008-2220 in Learning Community Environment
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Interact Learning Community Environment Interact 2.4.1, when register_globals is enabled, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) CONFIG[LANGUAGE_CPATH] parameter to modules/forum/embedforum.php and the (2) CONFIG[BASE_PATH] parameter to modules/scorm/lib.inc.php, different vectors than CVE-2006-4448.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2008-2220 represents a critical remote code execution flaw in the Interact Learning Community Environment Interact 2.4.1 platform, specifically exploiting insecure parameter handling in PHP applications. This vulnerability emerges when the problematic PHP configuration setting register_globals is enabled, creating a dangerous condition where user-supplied input can directly influence the execution flow of the application. The flaw manifests in two distinct attack vectors within the platform's codebase, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple pathways for exploitation. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-88, which describes the issue of argument injection in command-line interfaces, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, representing the execution of arbitrary code or commands, making it a direct threat to system integrity and security.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through improper validation of user-provided parameters in two specific PHP files within the application's module structure. The first vector targets modules/forum/embedforum.php where the CONFIG[LANGUAGE_CPATH] parameter is not properly sanitized, allowing an attacker to inject a malicious URL that gets included and executed by the PHP interpreter. The second vector operates through modules/scorm/lib.inc.php where the CONFIG[BASE_PATH] parameter suffers from the same sanitization deficiency. When register_globals is enabled, these parameters become accessible as global variables, and the application's failure to validate or sanitize these inputs creates a direct path for remote code execution. This vulnerability directly maps to the ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves the execution of code through PHP web shells, and T1190, representing the exploitation of remote services through web application vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it allows attackers to completely compromise the affected system and potentially gain persistent access to the network infrastructure. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary PHP code with the privileges of the web server, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and establishment of backdoors. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it requires only a single parameter to be manipulated, making it easily exploitable through simple web requests. The presence of multiple attack vectors increases the probability of successful exploitation, as attackers can attempt different approaches if one vector fails. This vulnerability directly affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system, as it provides unauthorized access to critical system resources and can be used to modify or destroy data within the application's scope.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2220 must address both the immediate exploitation vectors and the underlying configuration issues that make the vulnerability possible. The most effective immediate solution involves disabling the register_globals directive in the PHP configuration, which eliminates the core condition enabling this attack. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization of all user-supplied parameters within the affected files is crucial, ensuring that any external input is properly filtered before being used in include or require statements. The application should implement a whitelist approach for path parameters, allowing only predefined safe values. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting these specific parameters. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application. The remediation efforts should align with security frameworks such as the OWASP Top 10, specifically addressing the prevention of insecure direct object references and injection flaws, which are fundamental to protecting against this class of vulnerability.