CVE-2008-6023 in Xnova
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in includes/todofleetcontrol.php in a newer version of Xnova, possibly 0.8 sp1, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the xnova_root_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6023 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Xnova space simulation game platform, specifically affecting versions including 0.8 sp1. This vulnerability resides in the todofleetcontrol.php file within the includes directory structure, where improper input validation allows attackers to inject malicious URLs that can be executed as PHP code on the target server. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-98, which describes improper restriction of operations within a recognized security scope, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters, particularly the xnova_root_path variable. When an attacker crafts a malicious URL and injects it into this parameter, the application processes the input without adequate validation or sanitization, leading to the execution of arbitrary PHP code on the server. This represents a classic remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited through web-based attacks, typically involving crafted HTTP requests that manipulate the application's parameter handling mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected server environment. Successful exploitation enables adversaries to upload additional malicious files, execute system commands, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the compromised infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire application ecosystem, as it allows attackers to bypass normal authentication mechanisms and operate within the application's security context. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in web applications where multiple users interact with shared resources, potentially allowing attackers to compromise the entire platform.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6023 should focus on immediate patching of the affected Xnova versions, implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms, and deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for web application files, ensuring that the application runs with minimal necessary permissions. Additionally, regular security audits and code reviews should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the application stack, with particular attention to parameter handling and file inclusion operations. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and demonstrates how insufficient input validation can lead to catastrophic security implications in web-based applications.