CVE-2008-2228 in Cyberfolio
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in portfolio/commentaires/derniers_commentaires.php in Cyberfolio 7.12, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the rep parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2228 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Cyberfolio 7.12 web application, specifically affecting the portfolio/commentaires/derniers_commentaires.php script. This vulnerability leverages the dangerous combination of PHP's register_globals directive being enabled and improper input validation, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The flaw resides in how the application processes the rep parameter, which is directly incorporated into a file inclusion operation without adequate sanitization or validation. When register_globals is enabled, PHP automatically creates global variables from GET, POST, and cookie data, effectively bypassing normal input validation mechanisms and allowing malicious parameters to be directly interpreted as variables within the application context.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a well-established pattern that aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command. In this case, the vulnerability manifests as CWE-94, representing improper validation of critical control elements, where the rep parameter serves as an untrusted input that directly influences file inclusion operations. Attackers can craft malicious URLs containing PHP code within the rep parameter, which gets executed when the vulnerable script processes the input. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal user interaction from the victim, as the malicious code execution occurs server-side during the processing of the commentaires script. This type of vulnerability is categorized under the ATT&CK framework as T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where attackers target web applications to gain unauthorized access and execute malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Once exploited, attackers can upload additional malicious files, establish backdoors, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the web application and underlying system, as the attacker can modify or delete content, access database information, and disrupt normal service operations. The exploitation is particularly concerning in environments where the application runs with elevated privileges, as it could lead to complete system compromise. Organizations using Cyberfolio 7.12 with register_globals enabled face significant risk, as this vulnerability can be exploited without requiring authentication or specific user actions, making it an attractive target for automated attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2228 must address both the immediate vulnerability and underlying architectural issues. The primary recommendation involves disabling the register_globals directive in PHP configuration, which immediately eliminates the core condition that enables this attack vector. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization techniques, such as using allowlists for parameter values or employing proper file inclusion methods that prevent external URL inclusion, significantly reduces the risk. Organizations should also consider upgrading to newer versions of Cyberfolio that address this vulnerability, as version 7.12 is outdated and likely contains additional security flaws. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection, while regular security audits and penetration testing help identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The vulnerability serves as a stark reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and proper configuration management, particularly regarding the dangerous PHP directive that was deprecated in later PHP versions due to similar security concerns.