CVE-2008-3570 in Africa Be Gone
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in Africa Be Gone (ABG) 1.0a allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the abg_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/02/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3570 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Africa Be Gone (ABG) content management system version 1.0a. This vulnerability exists in the index.php script where the abg_path parameter is directly incorporated into a require or include statement without proper input validation or sanitization. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly validate user-supplied input before using it in dynamic file inclusion operations, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code through carefully crafted URLs.
This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-88, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, commonly known as command injection or file inclusion vulnerabilities. The attack vector exploits the lack of proper input validation mechanisms that should prevent attackers from manipulating the file inclusion process to execute malicious code on the target server. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the compromised server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to upload backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify website content, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks against other systems within the network. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not need physical access to the server or any local privileges, making the attack surface extremely broad and accessible.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The recommended approach involves removing the vulnerable parameter from user input and instead using a predefined whitelist of valid paths or implementing proper input validation that prevents URL schemes from being accepted in the abg_path parameter. Additionally, disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configuration and implementing proper access controls can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and regular security auditing procedures to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities in their web applications. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services, and represents a classic example of how insecure coding practices can lead to severe security consequences in web applications.