CVE-2008-5947 in yapbb
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in include/class_yapbbcooker.php in YapBB 1.2.Beta 2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the cfgIncludeDirectory parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-5947 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the YapBB 1.2.Beta 2 bulletin board system, specifically affecting the include/class_yapbbcooker.php file. This weakness stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data before incorporating it into the application's execution flow. The vulnerability manifests when the application processes the cfgIncludeDirectory parameter without adequate validation, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary URLs that get executed within the context of the web server. This type of vulnerability falls under the broader category of insecure direct object references and remote code execution vectors that have been systematically catalogued by the CWE database under CWE-94, which specifically addresses "Improper Control of Generation of Code" and CWE-20, "Improper Input Validation."
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a straightforward attack vector where remote attackers can manipulate the cfgIncludeDirectory parameter to point to malicious remote resources. When the application processes this parameter, it directly includes the specified URL without proper validation, effectively allowing the web server to fetch and execute PHP code from external sources. This creates a pathway for attackers to inject malicious code, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or unauthorized access to sensitive information. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input sanitization practices and highlights the importance of implementing proper parameter validation and secure coding practices as recommended by industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, and conduct further reconnaissance within the compromised network. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to deploy web shells, modify application behavior, or gain access to database credentials and user information stored within the forum system. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate application but can also provide a foothold for lateral movement attacks, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where forum systems may be interconnected with other services. This type of vulnerability is categorized under the MITRE ATT&CK framework as part of the T1059.007 technique for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1078.004 technique for "Valid Accounts: Cloud Accounts" when considering the potential for credential theft and account compromise. The impact is amplified by the fact that this vulnerability affects a widely used bulletin board system, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools and mass scanning campaigns.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-5947 should focus on immediate patching of the affected application version, as well as implementing comprehensive input validation and parameter sanitization measures. Organizations should enforce strict input validation on all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in include or require statements, by implementing allowlists of acceptable values and rejecting any input that does not conform to predefined patterns. The implementation of PHP's safe_mode restrictions, disable_functions directives, and proper file inclusion mechanisms such as realpath() checks can significantly reduce the exploitation surface. Additionally, network-level defenses including web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems should be configured to monitor and block suspicious patterns of traffic targeting known vulnerable parameters. Security teams should also implement regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in other applications and systems, following the principle of least privilege and ensuring that all software components are maintained with the latest security patches as recommended by NIST and other security organizations.