CVE-2008-2888 in MiGCMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in MiGCMS 2.0.5, when register_globals is enabled, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the GLOBALS[application][app_root] parameter to (1) collection.class.php and (2) content_image.class.php in lib/obj/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/29/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-2888 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting MiGCMS 2.0.5 when the PHP configuration option register_globals is enabled. This issue stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the application's object handling mechanisms, specifically in the collection.class.php and content_image.class.php files located in the lib/obj/ directory. The vulnerability operates through the GLOBALS array manipulation, which allows attackers to inject malicious URLs into the application's parameter processing flow.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the dangerous behavior of PHP's register_globals directive, which automatically creates global variables from GET, POST, and cookie data. When enabled, this configuration creates a significant security risk as it allows attackers to manipulate global variables directly through URL parameters. The vulnerability specifically targets the GLOBALS[application][app_root] parameter, which is processed without proper sanitization, enabling attackers to inject arbitrary PHP code through malicious URLs that get executed within the application context.
This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-94, which describes "Improper Control of Generation of Code ('Code Injection')" and specifically relates to "Remote File Inclusion" as a subtype. The attack vector operates through the attacker-controlled GLOBALS parameter that gets processed by the application's object loading mechanism, allowing for arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the web server process. The impact extends beyond simple code injection to include potential full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms within the compromised environment.
The operational implications of this vulnerability are severe for any MiGCMS 2.0.5 installation where register_globals remains enabled, as it provides attackers with a straightforward path to execute arbitrary code remotely. The vulnerability affects the core object handling functionality of the content management system, potentially allowing attackers to gain complete control over the web application and underlying server. Attackers can leverage this flaw to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, and conduct further reconnaissance or lateral movement within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2888 require immediate action to disable the register_globals directive in PHP configuration, as this fundamentally eliminates the attack vector. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms throughout their applications, particularly when processing external parameters. The recommended approach includes upgrading to a supported version of MiGCMS that addresses this vulnerability, implementing proper parameter validation in the affected files, and ensuring that the PHP configuration does not enable potentially dangerous features like register_globals. Additionally, network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional defense-in-depth measures against exploitation attempts, while regular security audits should verify that similar vulnerabilities do not exist in other application components or third-party libraries.