CVE-2008-6347 in Onguma Time Sheet
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in lib/onguma.class.php in the Onguma Time Sheet (com_ongumatimesheet20) 2.0 4b component for Joomla! allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/10/2024
The CVE-2008-6347 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Onguma Time Sheet component for Joomla! version 2.0 4b. This vulnerability exists within the lib/onguma.class.php file and specifically targets the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected system. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data from being used in file inclusion operations. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-88 category, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, which covers inadequate control of generation of code, or Code Injection. The attack vector leverages the component's reliance on user-provided parameters to construct file paths, allowing malicious actors to inject URLs that point to remote malicious files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary code on the target server with the privileges of the web application. This can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication to exploit, making it an ideal target for automated attacks. Attackers can craft malicious URLs that include their own PHP payloads, which get executed when the vulnerable component processes the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter. This flaw enables attackers to perform various malicious activities including but not limited to information disclosure, privilege escalation, and system takeover. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003, which covers Server Software Component Vulnerability, and T1059.007, which covers Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python, highlighting the code execution capabilities that such vulnerabilities enable.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires understanding of the Joomla installation directory, but due to insufficient validation, attackers can manipulate this parameter to include malicious URLs. The vulnerability exists because the application does not properly validate or sanitize input data before using it in file inclusion operations, creating a classic path traversal and code injection scenario. This flaw demonstrates poor secure coding practices and inadequate input sanitization, which are fundamental requirements for preventing such vulnerabilities. The component's design fails to implement proper parameter validation and does not use secure file inclusion methods that would prevent remote URL inclusion. Organizations using this vulnerable component face significant risk of compromise, as the vulnerability can be exploited through simple web requests without requiring any special privileges or authentication credentials.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6347 should focus on immediate patching and implementation of defensive measures. The primary solution involves updating to a patched version of the Onguma Time Sheet component or upgrading to a newer version of the Joomla installations. The remediation process must include proper testing of patches to ensure they do not introduce regressions in functionality while effectively addressing the security flaw. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and implementing robust security practices in web application development and deployment.