CVE-2008-3401 in HIOX Random Ad
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in hioxRandomAd.php in HIOX Random Ad (HRA) 1.3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the hm parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3401 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the HIOX Random Ad (HRA) 1.3 web application. This vulnerability resides within the hioxRandomAd.php script where user input is improperly validated and directly incorporated into file inclusion operations without adequate sanitization measures. The specific parameter affected is named 'hm' which accepts URL values that are subsequently processed by the application's include or require functions, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system.
This vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically manifesting as a remote file inclusion attack. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate the application's file inclusion mechanism by providing a malicious URL through the hm parameter, allowing them to load and execute remote PHP scripts. The attack vector operates through the exploitation of input validation weaknesses where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the URL parameter before using it in file operations, directly violating secure coding principles and best practices established in the OWASP Top Ten.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution, data theft, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive information, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that attackers can exploit it from anywhere on the internet without requiring local system access, making it particularly dangerous for web applications that are publicly accessible.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening. The primary fix involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Developers should avoid using user input directly in include or require statements and instead implement a whitelist approach that only allows pre-approved values. The application should be updated to use absolute paths for file inclusion operations and implement proper parameter validation using functions like filter_var with appropriate filters. Additionally, the system should be configured to disable remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration, and administrators should regularly update and patch all web applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in the system. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following ATT&CK framework techniques related to command and control operations and privilege escalation through code injection attacks, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security monitoring and incident response procedures.