CVE-2008-2689 in BrowserCRM
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in pub/clients.php in BrowserCRM 5.002.00 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the bcrm_pub_root parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2689 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within BrowserCRM version 5.002.00, specifically affecting the pub/clients.php script. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The affected parameter bcrm_pub_root accepts URL values that are directly processed without sufficient security controls, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The flaw operates at the application layer and demonstrates a classic path traversal and code execution vulnerability that has been consistently documented in security literature as one of the most dangerous web application vulnerabilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the bcrm_pub_root parameter, which is then processed by the PHP include or require functions within the clients.php script. This allows the attacker to reference remote files hosted on external servers, effectively enabling remote code execution capabilities. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper control of code generation capabilities, and CWE-22, which addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. From an operational perspective, this vulnerability provides attackers with complete control over the affected system, enabling them to execute commands, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent access. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it requires minimal privileges and can be executed through standard web browser interactions without requiring specialized tools or deep technical knowledge.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond immediate code execution to encompass broader security implications including data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, modify existing application functionality, or establish backdoors for continued access. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation practices that violate fundamental security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically targeting techniques related to command and control communications and privilege escalation. Organizations utilizing BrowserCRM 5.002.00 are particularly at risk as this vulnerability has been widely documented and exploited in the wild, with numerous reports of successful attacks against unpatched systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2689 require immediate implementation of multiple defensive measures including the application of vendor patches, input validation hardening, and network-level restrictions. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the official security patch provided by BrowserCRM vendors, which typically includes proper parameter sanitization and validation mechanisms. Additionally, implementing strict input validation that rejects non-numeric or non-expected URL formats for the bcrm_pub_root parameter will prevent exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the affected application and limit outbound connections to prevent command and control communications. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file inclusion patterns and anomalous URL parameters. The implementation of web application firewalls and runtime application self-protection mechanisms can provide additional layers of defense against similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potential remote file inclusion vulnerabilities within their application portfolios and ensure proper security configuration management practices are implemented across all web applications.