CVE-2008-6313 in phpAddEdit
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in addedit-render.php in phpAddEdit 1.3, when magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files via a URL in the editform parameter. NOTE: PHP remote file inclusion attacks are also likely.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6313 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the phpAddEdit 1.3 web application framework. This weakness exists in the addedit-render.php component and specifically manifests when the PHP configuration parameter magic_quotes_gpc is disabled. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization practices that fail to adequately filter user-supplied data before processing. Attackers can exploit this flaw by manipulating the editform parameter within URLs to inject malicious file paths that bypass normal access controls and directory restrictions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which classifies directory traversal attacks as a common weakness in web applications. When magic_quotes_gpc is disabled, PHP does not automatically escape special characters in GET, POST, and COOKIE data, creating an environment where attackers can inject malicious payloads without proper sanitization. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to include and execute arbitrary local files through the editform parameter, effectively enabling arbitrary code execution on the affected server. This occurs because the application directly incorporates user input into file inclusion operations without proper validation or sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. Remote attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on the target server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability also enables unauthorized access to sensitive files and data stored on the server, including configuration files, database credentials, and other confidential information. Additionally, attackers can use this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges, or conduct further reconnaissance activities within the compromised network environment. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the system.
The threat landscape for this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage for remote code execution. The vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1566, covering spearphishing with a link, as attackers often use malicious URLs to deliver payloads. Organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The impact extends beyond immediate exploitation to include long-term security implications such as persistent threats and data exfiltration capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6313 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected phpAddEdit framework to the latest available version that addresses this vulnerability. System administrators should also implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent unauthorized file inclusion operations. The recommended approach includes enabling magic_quotes_gpc or implementing proper parameter validation, using allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives set to off, and implementing web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious file inclusion patterns. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify other potential vulnerabilities within their web applications and implement proper access controls and monitoring mechanisms to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.