CVE-2008-4624 in Fast Click SQL Lite
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in init.php in Fast Click SQL Lite 1.1.7, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the CFG[CDIR] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-4624 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in Fast Click SQL Lite version 1.1.7 that exploits the dangerous combination of insecure parameter handling and the deprecated register_globals PHP directive. This vulnerability resides within the init.php script and specifically targets the CFG[CDIR] parameter, creating an attack vector that enables remote code execution when the vulnerable web application operates with register_globals enabled. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations, allowing attackers to inject malicious URLs that get executed within the context of the web server process.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically with CWE-94, which covers the execution of code with elevated privileges. When register_globals is enabled, PHP automatically creates global variables from GET, POST, and cookie data, effectively bypassing normal input validation mechanisms. Attackers can manipulate the CFG[CDIR] parameter to point to external malicious scripts hosted on attacker-controlled servers, thereby achieving arbitrary code execution. This vulnerability directly maps to the ATT&CK technique T1190, which describes the use of remote file inclusion to execute malicious code on target systems, and T1059, which covers the execution of commands through various interfaces.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server environment. Successful exploitation can lead to data theft, system compromise, and further lateral movement within network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects any system running Fast Click SQL Lite 1.1.7 with register_globals enabled, which was common in older PHP configurations but represents a significant security risk due to the dangerous nature of the vulnerability. Organizations with legacy systems that have not updated their PHP configurations or application code remain particularly vulnerable to this type of attack.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-4624 require immediate action to disable register_globals in PHP configuration, which serves as the primary enabling factor for this vulnerability. The recommended approach includes updating to a newer version of Fast Click SQL Lite that properly validates input parameters and eliminates reliance on register_globals functionality. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms for all user-supplied parameters, using allow_url_include directives set to off, and employing web application firewalls can significantly reduce the attack surface. Security measures should also include regular security audits, input validation frameworks, and the implementation of secure coding practices that prevent dynamic code inclusion without proper validation. Organizations should consider migrating away from deprecated PHP features and adopt modern security standards that prevent such vulnerabilities from occurring in the first place.