CVE-2008-2977 in Ourvideo CMS
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Ourvideo CMS 9.5 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the include_connection parameter to (1) edit_top_feature.php and (2) edit_topics_feature.php in phpi/.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/29/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-2977 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting Ourvideo CMS version 9.5. This issue resides within the phpi/ directory of the content management system and specifically targets two PHP files: edit_top_feature.php and edit_topics_feature.php. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation mechanisms that fail to sanitize user-supplied data before using it in file inclusion operations, creating an exploitable path for malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code into the target system.
The technical flaw manifests through the include_connection parameter which is directly processed without adequate sanitization or validation. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL as the value for this parameter, the vulnerable PHP scripts execute the included file, effectively allowing remote code execution. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more specifically to CWE-94, which covers the execution of code from untrusted sources. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it allows for arbitrary code execution, potentially enabling attackers to gain full control over the affected server.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to any organization utilizing Ourvideo CMS 9.5 in its infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute malicious code remotely, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors. The attack vector requires no authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by anyone with access to the vulnerable web application. The vulnerability's presence in core editing functionality suggests that even legitimate users with appropriate privileges could potentially be exploited if they inadvertently trigger the vulnerable code path, though the primary threat comes from external attackers.
The mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected CMS version, as the vendor has likely released security updates addressing this specific flaw. Organizations should implement input validation measures that sanitize all user-supplied data before processing, particularly parameters that influence file inclusion operations. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense in depth, though they should not replace proper code-level fixes. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices including the principle of least privilege, where file inclusion operations are restricted to predefined safe paths. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and monitoring for unusual file inclusion patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of validating all external inputs and the potential catastrophic consequences when such validation fails, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for execution through PHP and T1190 for exploitation through remote file inclusion attacks.