CVE-2008-2769 in phpRaider
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in authentication/smf/smf.functions.php in Simple Machines phpRaider 1.0.6 and 1.0.7 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the pConfig_auth[smf_path] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2769 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Simple Machines phpRaider application version 1.0.6 and 1.0.7. This issue resides in the authentication/smf/smf.functions.php file where the application fails to properly validate user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The specific parameter affected is pConfig_auth[smf_path] which accepts URL values that are then processed by the application's include mechanism, creating an avenue for malicious exploitation.
This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-98, which specifically addresses the inclusion of a file that should not be included, commonly known as remote file inclusion or rfi vulnerabilities. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of input validation and sanitization, where the application directly uses user-controllable data without proper security checks. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to inject arbitrary PHP code execution through the inclusion of remote files, bypassing normal application security controls and potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to escalate privileges and gain unauthorized access to sensitive system resources. When exploited, the vulnerability enables remote code execution through the manipulation of the pConfig_auth[smf_path] parameter, allowing attackers to include malicious PHP scripts hosted on external servers. This creates a persistent threat vector that can be leveraged for data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and further lateral movement within compromised networks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in web environments where phpRaider is deployed, as it can be exploited without requiring authentication or specialized knowledge beyond basic web application exploitation techniques.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should encompass multiple layers of defense including immediate patching of affected versions to address the root cause of the issue. Organizations should implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that reject or escape any URL parameters before they are processed by include functions. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit the attack surface by restricting access to vulnerable applications. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and runtime application self-protection mechanisms can provide additional detection and prevention capabilities. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploitation of remote services, and T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning and regular security assessments to identify similar issues in other applications and systems that may be susceptible to similar remote file inclusion attacks.