CVE-2009-0294 in Wbnews
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in WB News 2.0.1, when register_globals is enabled, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the config[installdir] parameter to (1) search.php, (2) archive.php, (3) comments.php, and (4) news.php; (5) News.php, (6) SendFriend.php, (7) Archive.php, and (8) Comments.php in base/; and possibly other components, different vectors than CVE-2007-1288.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/16/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0294 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting WB News 2.0.1 content management system. This vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied input within the application's configuration parameters, specifically the config[installdir] parameter. The flaw exists when the PHP configuration directive register_globals is enabled, creating a dangerous condition where user input can directly influence the inclusion of external files. The vulnerability impacts multiple core application files including search.php, archive.php, comments.php, news.php, and several components within the base/ directory structure. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-88 as improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94 as execution of arbitrary code due to improper input validation. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it represents an attack vector through web application interfaces.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the config[installdir] parameter to include a malicious URL, which then gets processed by the PHP include or require functions. When register_globals is enabled, the application treats the user-supplied URL as a legitimate configuration value, leading to the inclusion of remote files containing malicious PHP code. This creates a chain of execution where arbitrary code can be run on the target server with the privileges of the web application. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic path traversal and remote code execution pattern, where the attacker can essentially inject their own code into the application's execution flow. The impact is particularly severe because the attacker does not need to directly compromise the server's file system, but can leverage the web application's inclusion mechanisms to achieve code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain full control over the web server, potentially leading to data theft, service disruption, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the WB News application, making it impossible to determine which specific files are vulnerable without detailed source code analysis. The presence of multiple affected files increases the attack surface and provides multiple potential vectors for exploitation. Organizations running WB News 2.0.1 with register_globals enabled are particularly at risk, as this configuration setting significantly reduces the security posture of the application. The vulnerability also has implications for web application security practices, as it highlights the dangers of enabling dangerous PHP configuration options and the importance of proper input validation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-0294 must address both the immediate vulnerability and underlying security misconfigurations. The most effective immediate solution involves disabling the register_globals PHP configuration directive, which eliminates the core condition that enables this attack. System administrators should also implement proper input validation and sanitization measures, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters are thoroughly checked before being used in file inclusion operations. The application should be updated to a patched version that properly validates and escapes all input parameters. Network-based mitigations include implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious URL patterns in the config[installdir] parameter. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file inclusion patterns and unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of following secure coding practices, particularly in avoiding the use of user input directly in include/require statements. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications and ensure that all web applications follow secure development practices as outlined in OWASP Top 10 and other industry standards.