CVE-2008-2772 in Magic Tabs module
Summary
by MITRE
The Magic Tabs module 5.x before 5.x-1.1 for Drupal allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via unspecified URL arguments, possibly related to a missing "whitelist of callbacks."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2017
The Magic Tabs module for Drupal represents a critical security vulnerability that emerged in version 5.x before 5.x-1.1, exposing systems to remote code execution attacks. This flaw specifically targets the module's handling of URL arguments, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and a lack of proper callback whitelisting mechanisms within the module's architecture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the module's failure to properly sanitize or validate URL parameters that are intended to control tab navigation and callback execution. When users interact with the module's interface, specific URL arguments are processed to determine which callback functions should be executed. The absence of a comprehensive whitelist mechanism allows attackers to manipulate these parameters to reference unauthorized PHP code segments. This design flaw aligns with common software security weaknesses documented in CWE-20, which addresses improper input validation, and CWE-94, which covers inadequate control of generation of code.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to Drupal installations using the Magic Tabs module, as it enables attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require local system access or authentication credentials to exploit the vulnerability. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data theft, service disruption, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The impact extends beyond individual module functionality to potentially affect the entire Drupal application and underlying server infrastructure.
Security practitioners should immediately implement mitigation strategies including updating to the patched version 5.x-1.1 or later of the Magic Tabs module, which addresses the callback whitelisting issue. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls with rules to monitor and block suspicious URL parameter patterns can provide additional protection layers. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected module and ensure proper patch management processes are in place. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and callback mechanism security, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework's techniques for command and control through web shells and remote code execution. The incident underscores the necessity of maintaining updated security practices and the critical role of proper access control mechanisms in preventing unauthorized code execution within web applications.