CVE-2008-6408 in ol bookmarks manager
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in frame.php in ol bookmarks manager 0.7.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the framefile parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/04/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-6408 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the ol bookmarks manager version 0.7.5, specifically within the frame.php script. This issue arises 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 an attacker can manipulate the framefile parameter to include malicious PHP code from remote locations, effectively bypassing the application's intended security boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the framefile parameter within the frame.php script, which accepts user input without adequate validation or sanitization. When the application processes this parameter, it directly incorporates the supplied URL into the file inclusion mechanism, allowing remote attackers to reference external resources containing malicious PHP code. This creates a pathway for arbitrary code execution on the vulnerable system, as the web server processes and executes the included code with the privileges of the web application. The flaw directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of command and buffer injection attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised system and enables them to establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or use the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks within the network infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload and execute malicious payloads, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the application. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where the web server has elevated privileges, as it can enable privilege escalation attacks and facilitate lateral movement within the network.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures that prevent user-supplied data from being interpreted as executable code. Organizations should ensure that all user inputs are properly validated against whitelisted patterns and that the application employs secure coding practices such as using include_once() with validated file paths rather than dynamic parameter inclusion. The implementation of web application firewalls and proper input filtering mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection against such attacks. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving remote code execution and command injection, requiring defensive measures such as input validation, secure coding practices, and network segmentation to prevent exploitation. Regular security assessments and code reviews should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in the application's codebase.