CVE-2008-3207 in cms
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in cms/modules/form.lib.php in Pragyan CMS 2.6.2, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the (1) sourceFolder or (2) moduleFolder parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3207 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Pragyan Content Management System version 2.6.2. This vulnerability specifically targets the cms/modules/form.lib.php component and exploits a fundamental security weakness that arises when the PHP configuration parameter register_globals is enabled. The flaw operates by permitting remote attackers to inject malicious URLs into specific parameters, creating a pathway for arbitrary code execution on the affected system. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by its ability to leverage the dangerous register_globals feature, which automatically creates global variables from request parameters, effectively bypassing normal input validation mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the form.lib.php file where the sourceFolder and moduleFolder parameters are directly incorporated into include or require statements without adequate sanitization. When register_globals is enabled, these parameters become accessible as global variables, allowing attackers to manipulate their values through HTTP requests. The attacker can construct malicious URLs that, when passed as these parameters, get evaluated by the PHP interpreter and executed as legitimate code. This creates a classic remote code execution scenario where the attacker's malicious payload is seamlessly integrated into the application's execution flow, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with extensive control over the compromised system. Once exploited, the vulnerability allows unauthorized individuals to execute arbitrary commands, potentially leading to data breaches, system infiltration, and complete server takeover. The vulnerability affects systems where Pragyan CMS 2.6.2 is deployed with register_globals enabled, which was a common configuration in older PHP environments. This exposure creates a significant risk for organizations that have not properly configured their PHP environments or have not updated their CMS to newer versions that address this security weakness. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical expertise, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by attackers of varying skill levels.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability must address both the immediate exploitation vector and the underlying configuration issues that enable the flaw. The primary recommendation involves disabling the register_globals directive in PHP configuration files, as this parameter is inherently dangerous and should never be enabled in production environments. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application code to prevent malicious URLs from being processed. Additionally, the Pragyan CMS should be updated to versions that properly address this vulnerability through secure coding practices that avoid direct parameter inclusion in file operations. From an operational security perspective, implementing web application firewalls and input validation controls can provide additional layers of protection against similar attacks. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices that should be addressed through comprehensive security hardening measures. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a remote code execution technique that can be leveraged for privilege escalation and persistent access within compromised environments.