CVE-2008-4502 in Dff Framework Api
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in DataFeedFile (DFF) PHP Framework API allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the DFF_config[dir_include] parameter to (1) DFF_affiliate_client_API.php, (2) DFF_featured_prdt.func.php, (3) DFF_mer.func.php, (4) DFF_mer_prdt.func.php, (5) DFF_paging.func.php, (6) DFF_rss.func.php, and (7) DFF_sku.func.php in include/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4502 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the DataFeedFile (DFF) PHP Framework API, specifically affecting multiple core components of the system. This vulnerability resides in the way the framework handles user-supplied input parameters, particularly the DFF_config[dir_include] parameter that is processed through several API files including DFF_affiliate_client_API.php, DFF_featured_prdt.func.php, and others. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs into the inclusion mechanism, effectively bypassing normal security boundaries and gaining unauthorized access to the system's file processing capabilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic remote file inclusion attack pattern where an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it as the DFF_config[dir_include] parameter to one of the vulnerable PHP files. When the framework processes this input without proper validation or sanitization, it attempts to include and execute the remote file specified by the attacker, leading to arbitrary code execution on the target server. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-88, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple code execution as it provides attackers with the ability to escalate privileges and potentially gain full control over the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code remotely without requiring authentication or physical access to the system. Once exploited, an attacker can upload malicious files, modify existing functionality, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors within the system. The vulnerability affects multiple files within the include/ directory of the DFF framework, making it particularly dangerous as it provides several potential attack vectors. The widespread nature of the affected files means that even if one specific endpoint is patched, attackers may still exploit other vulnerable components within the same framework. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and can lead to complete system compromise, making it a high-priority target for exploitation in automated attack campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4502 should focus on immediate patching of the affected DFF framework versions and implementation of input validation controls to prevent unauthorized file inclusion. Organizations should disable the vulnerable functionality entirely by modifying the framework configuration to prevent dynamic inclusion of external resources. The implementation of proper parameter sanitization and the use of allowlists for acceptable file paths can effectively prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, network-level protections such as firewalls and web application firewalls should be configured to block suspicious inclusion patterns and monitor for known attack signatures. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the system, while also ensuring that the framework is updated to a secure version that addresses this specific vulnerability. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing to verify that legitimate functionality remains intact while the vulnerability is properly addressed.