CVE-2008-3311 in Flip
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in config.php in Adam Scheinberg Flip 3.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the incpath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3311 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Adam Scheinberg Flip 3.0 web application. This issue specifically affects the config.php file where improper input validation allows attackers to inject malicious URLs through the incpath parameter. The vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and represents a classic example of a remote code execution vulnerability that has been widely documented in cybersecurity literature. The flaw exists due to the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations, creating an attack surface that can be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on the target system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's use of dynamic file inclusion without proper validation mechanisms. When a user provides input through the incpath parameter, the system directly incorporates this value into file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization or validation checks. This creates a path traversal condition where attackers can manipulate the parameter to reference external URLs containing malicious PHP code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote code execution, enabling attackers to gain full control over the affected system. According to CWE guidelines, this maps to CWE-98 which describes improper control of code generation capabilities, while the ATT&CK framework would classify this under T1059.007 for remote code execution through web shells and T1566 for initial access via web application vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-3311 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, steal sensitive information, perform lateral movement within networks, and establish persistent access to compromised systems. The vulnerability affects web applications running the Adam Scheinberg Flip 3.0 software, making it particularly concerning for organizations that have not updated their systems. The attack vector is straightforward and does not require sophisticated techniques, making it accessible to threat actors of varying skill levels. Organizations using vulnerable versions of this software face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete system takeover, allowing attackers to manipulate application behavior, access databases, and potentially use the compromised system as a pivot point for attacking other network resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-3311 should focus on immediate patching of affected systems and implementation of input validation controls. The primary defense mechanism involves updating to patched versions of the Adam Scheinberg Flip 3.0 software where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input sanitization and validation. Organizations should implement proper parameter validation and sanitization techniques to prevent malicious input from being processed by the application. Security measures including web application firewalls, input validation rules, and proper access controls should be implemented to prevent exploitation attempts. The principle of least privilege should be applied to web application configurations, ensuring that applications run with minimal required permissions. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across the organization's web applications. Additionally, implementing proper network segmentation and monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts, while security awareness training for developers can reduce the likelihood of similar vulnerabilities being introduced in future applications.