CVE-2008-6074 in phpcrs
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in frame.php in phpcrs 2.06 and earlier, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a .. (dot dot) in the importFunction parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6074 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the phpcrs 2.06 content management system, specifically affecting the frame.php component. This weakness arises from insufficient input validation when processing the importFunction parameter, creating an avenue for remote attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly severe when the web server environment has magic_quotes_gpc disabled, which removes the automatic escaping of special characters that would normally prevent such attacks. The flaw enables attackers to navigate the file system hierarchy using the .. (dot dot) traversal sequences, potentially accessing sensitive files or executing arbitrary code on the target system. This directory traversal vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the importFunction parameter in the frame.php script, where the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input before using it in file inclusion operations. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, the attacker can directly inject directory traversal sequences without the protective escaping that would normally occur. This allows for the inclusion of local files from arbitrary locations on the server filesystem, potentially enabling access to configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive data. The attack vector leverages the fundamental weakness in input validation and file handling processes, where user-controllable parameters are directly incorporated into file path operations without proper sanitization or restriction mechanisms. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic lack of proper input validation and output encoding practices that are essential for preventing file inclusion attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-6074 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can potentially lead to complete system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the target server, effectively gaining control over the entire web application environment. The exploitation can result in data theft, system infiltration, and potential lateral movement within the network infrastructure. Organizations running affected versions of phpcrs face significant risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information and system resources. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, where adversaries may use file inclusion vulnerabilities to execute malicious code. The impact is particularly severe because it allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and directly access server resources that should remain protected.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to address the core input validation issues within the phpcrs application. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to a patched version of phpcrs that properly implements input sanitization and validation for all user-supplied parameters. System administrators should ensure that magic_quotes_gpc is enabled on all affected systems, though this is considered a temporary workaround rather than a permanent solution. Implementing proper input validation and output encoding techniques, such as those recommended in the OWASP Top Ten, can prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. Additional protective measures include restricting file inclusion paths, implementing proper access controls, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious file inclusion attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for web application processes and regularly audit file permissions to minimize the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and proper file handling in web application security, particularly when dealing with dynamic file inclusion mechanisms that are common in content management systems and web applications.