CVE-2008-5066 in ThemeSiteScript
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in upload/admin/frontpage_right.php in Agares Media ThemeSiteScript 1.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the loadadminpage parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5066 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Agares Media ThemeSiteScript 1.0 content management system. This vulnerability resides in the upload/admin/frontpage_right.php script where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input. The specific parameter affected is loadadminpage which accepts URL values that are then processed by the application without adequate security controls. This flaw classifies under CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and specifically relates to the dangerous practice of including remote files based on user input.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the loadadminpage parameter, which then gets included and executed by the vulnerable PHP application. This creates a pathway for arbitrary code execution on the target server, as the application treats the remote URL as if it were a local file. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic remote code execution vector that bypasses normal access controls and allows attackers to execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process. This flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploits for execution through remote access tools and web application vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Successful exploitation can result in complete compromise of the affected web server, allowing attackers to establish persistent backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks against the internal network. The vulnerability affects the entire ThemeSiteScript 1.0 application and could potentially impact multiple websites running this version. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can leverage this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues, data breaches, and reputational damage if this vulnerability is exploited. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation practices that are commonly associated with insecure coding standards and can lead to similar issues in other parts of the application.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate patching of the ThemeSiteScript 1.0 application to the latest available version that addresses this flaw. Administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The use of allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives should be disabled in the php.ini configuration file to prevent remote file inclusion attacks. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other parts of the application. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for web server accounts and regularly monitor system logs for suspicious activities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation as outlined in OWASP Top Ten and other security frameworks.