CVE-2008-2480 in Short URL Multi-User Script
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in plus.php in plusPHP Short URL Multi-User Script 1.6 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the _pages_dir parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2480 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the plusPHP Short URL Multi-User Script version 1.6. This security weakness exists in the plus.php script and specifically targets the _pages_dir parameter, creating an avenue for remote attackers to execute malicious PHP code on the affected system. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations.
This vulnerability classifies under CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, representing improper execution of code, particularly in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. The flaw operates by allowing an attacker to manipulate the _pages_dir parameter through a URL, which then gets processed by the application without proper validation. When the application attempts to include this user-controlled URL as a file path, it effectively executes the remote code, granting the attacker full control over the affected server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely without authentication. This allows for complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The attack vector requires only a simple HTTP request with a malicious URL parameter, making it highly exploitable and dangerous in production environments. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the plusPHP script, potentially compromising all user data and system resources managed by the application. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for PHP and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as successful exploitation leads to command execution and potential system control.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2480 involve multiple layers of defensive measures that must be implemented immediately. The primary solution requires implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The application should employ a whitelist approach that only accepts predefined, safe values for the _pages_dir parameter rather than allowing arbitrary URLs. Additionally, the use of PHP's disable_functions directive should be configured to prevent execution of dangerous functions like eval, system, and exec. Server-side restrictions should include disabling remote file inclusion capabilities through php.ini configuration settings and implementing proper access controls. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be deployed to monitor and block suspicious requests containing malicious URL patterns. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar flaws in other applications and ensure proper patch management practices are maintained across all system components.