CVE-2008-5577 in sCssBoard
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index.php in sCssBoard 1.0, 1.1, 1.11, and 1.12 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the inc_function parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/17/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5577 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting the sCssBoard content management system versions 1.0 through 1.12. This vulnerability resides within the index.php script where the inc_function parameter is improperly validated, creating an avenue for remote code execution attacks. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of file inclusion operations. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through HTTP requests that manipulate the inc_function parameter to reference malicious remote URLs.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input sanitization and validation mechanisms within the sCssBoard application. When the application processes user-supplied input through the inc_function parameter, it directly incorporates this value into file inclusion operations without adequate verification or filtering. This creates a scenario where an attacker can inject URLs pointing to malicious PHP scripts hosted on remote servers, effectively allowing the application to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The vulnerability is classified under the ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it targets publicly accessible web applications that process external input without proper validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to fully compromise the affected web server. Successful exploitation enables attackers to upload additional malicious files, establish persistent backdoors, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised server as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the web application and its underlying data, as the attacker can manipulate the application's behavior and potentially gain access to administrative functions. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it affects multiple versions of the sCssBoard application, indicating a widespread exposure across various installations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5577 require immediate implementation of several security measures including input validation, parameter sanitization, and the application of secure coding practices. Organizations should implement proper input filtering that rejects any non-numeric or non-expected values for the inc_function parameter, as well as disable remote file inclusion features entirely within the application configuration. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, the affected sCssBoard installations should be updated to the latest available versions that contain proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding guidelines such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and the CWE classification system to prevent similar issues in future development cycles.