CVE-2008-6807 in osprey
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in ListRecords.php in osprey 1.0a4.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the xml_dir parameter. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information. NOTE: the lib_dir vector is already covered by CVE-2006-6630.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/23/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-6807 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the osprey content management system version 1.0a4.1, specifically within the ListRecords.php component. This vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to adequately restrict user-supplied data from being directly incorporated into file inclusion operations. The flaw manifests when the xml_dir parameter receives a URL value that is subsequently processed by the application's file inclusion logic, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability's classification as a remote file inclusion issue places it squarely within the purview of CWE-88, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more broadly under CWE-94, which encompasses the execution of arbitrary code due to improper input validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to completely compromise the affected system. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, establish persistent backdoors, or execute commands with the privileges of the web server process. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the system or any local credentials to exploit the vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. This weakness creates a direct path for attackers to escalate privileges, access sensitive data, and potentially use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability's exploitation aligns with techniques documented in the attack pattern taxonomy under ATT&CK matrix, specifically targeting the execution and privilege escalation phases of the attack lifecycle.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate security gap and implement broader defensive measures. The most effective immediate solution involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. Applications should employ whitelisting mechanisms that restrict file inclusion to predetermined, trusted directories and file names. Additionally, the use of secure coding practices such as disabling remote file inclusion in PHP configurations through the allow_url_include directive and implementing proper parameter validation routines can significantly reduce the attack surface. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious URL patterns in the xml_dir parameter. The remediation process should include comprehensive code review procedures to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components, as the presence of one RFI vulnerability often indicates potential exposure to similar flaws throughout the application codebase, consistent with the patterns documented in industry security frameworks and best practices.