CVE-2008-2986 in phpDMCA
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in phpDMCA 1.0.0 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the ourlinux_root_path parameter to (1) adodb-errorpear.inc.php and (2) adodb-pear.inc.php in adodb/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2986 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting phpDMCA version 1.0.0, specifically within the Active Directory Object (ADODB) library components. This vulnerability resides in two distinct files within the adodb directory structure: adodb-errorpear.inc.php and adodb-pear.inc.php. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code by manipulating the ourlinux_root_path parameter through a URL, effectively bypassing normal application security controls. The vulnerability operates under CWE-88, which classifies it as a command injection weakness, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services. The root cause stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied parameters that are directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without proper security checks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes user input through the ourlinux_root_path parameter, which is then used in a file inclusion context without adequate validation. Attackers can craft malicious URLs that, when passed to the vulnerable parameters, cause the application to include remote files from attacker-controlled servers. This creates an execution environment where arbitrary PHP code can be executed with the privileges of the web server process. The vulnerability affects both error handling and pear library integration components within the ADODB framework, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged during normal application operations when error conditions occur or when pear functionality is invoked. The flaw essentially transforms the legitimate file inclusion mechanism into a weaponized attack vector.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Successful exploitation enables remote code execution, which can lead to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistence mechanisms being established. The vulnerability affects not just the specific application but potentially the entire hosting environment, as the executed code operates with the permissions of the web server. This creates a risk of lateral movement within network environments and can facilitate further attacks against internal systems. The vulnerability also impacts the integrity and confidentiality of the application, as attackers can modify application behavior, steal sensitive data, or install backdoors for continued access. Organizations using phpDMCA 1.0.0 are particularly vulnerable since the flaw exists in core library files that are essential for application functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2986 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability. The primary recommendation involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion contexts. Organizations should disable the ability to pass external URLs to file inclusion functions and instead use a whitelist approach for acceptable file paths. The implementation of secure coding practices, including the use of PHP's open_basedir directive and disabling remote file inclusion features, provides additional protective layers. Patching the affected application to a version that properly validates and sanitizes input parameters represents the most effective long-term solution. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring of file inclusion operations can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Security teams should also implement proper access controls and regularly audit application code for similar vulnerabilities, as this type of flaw often indicates broader security weaknesses in the codebase. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure parameter handling and input validation in preventing remote code execution attacks.