CVE-2008-6983 in devalcms
Summary
by MITRE
modules/tool/hitcounter.php in devalcms 1.4a allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via the HTTP Referer header with a target file specified in the gv_folder_data parameter, as demonstrated by modifying modules/tool/url2header.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/24/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2008-6983 represents a critical remote code execution flaw within the devalcms 1.4a content management system. This vulnerability specifically targets the hitcounter.php module located in the modules/tool directory, demonstrating how seemingly innocuous header manipulation can lead to complete system compromise. The flaw exists due to inadequate input validation and sanitization of the HTTP Referer header, which is commonly used by web applications to track visitor navigation patterns. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious Referer headers that contain PHP code, which then gets executed within the context of the web server. The vulnerability becomes particularly dangerous when combined with the gv_folder_data parameter, which allows attackers to specify target files for exploitation, effectively creating a path traversal scenario that can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code anywhere within the application's file system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of user-supplied data within the hitcounter.php module. When the application processes the HTTP Referer header, it fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before incorporating it into dynamic PHP execution contexts. This creates an environment where attacker-controlled data can be interpreted as executable code rather than mere text. The exploitation technique demonstrates the classic pattern of code injection vulnerabilities where input from untrusted sources is directly used in code generation or execution contexts. The fact that the vulnerability can be demonstrated through modification of modules/tool/url2header.php indicates that the attack vector extends beyond simple header manipulation to include broader file inclusion and code execution capabilities. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes the execution of arbitrary code due to improper input validation, and falls under the broader category of code injection vulnerabilities that have been consistently identified as critical threats in web application security.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-6983 extends far beyond simple data theft or service disruption, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected web server. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary commands, install backdoors, modify or delete critical application files, and potentially escalate privileges to gain administrative access to the entire system. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not need physical access to the server or local network connectivity to exploit it, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible web applications. The implications for organizations using devalcms 1.4a are severe, as this vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise, data breaches, and potential use as a foothold for further attacks within larger network infrastructures. The attack can be automated and scaled, allowing for mass exploitation of vulnerable systems without requiring significant technical expertise from the attacker, making it a prime target for automated scanning tools and botnets.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6983 should focus on immediate patching of the affected devalcms 1.4a installation, as this represents the most effective solution to prevent exploitation. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures that prevent user-supplied data from being executed as code, particularly in headers and parameters that are used in dynamic code contexts. The implementation of proper access controls and least privilege principles can help limit the damage if exploitation occurs, while regular security monitoring and intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and firewall rules can be deployed to limit access to vulnerable components, and web application firewalls should be configured to detect and block malicious Referer header patterns. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities, as this type of code injection flaw often indicates broader security weaknesses in application design. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, aligning with ATT&CK techniques that emphasize code injection and privilege escalation as common attack vectors.