CVE-2009-0966 in Mega File Hosting Script
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in cross.php in YABSoft Mega File Hosting 1.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the url parameter. NOTE: this can also be leveraged to include and execute arbitrary local files via .. (dot dot) sequences.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0966 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the YABSoft Mega File Hosting 1.2 application's cross.php component. This vulnerability resides within the application's handling of user-supplied input through the url parameter, creating an avenue for remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The flaw demonstrates characteristics consistent with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically aligns with CWE-94, which encompasses the execution of arbitrary code due to improper input validation. The vulnerability's exploitation potential extends beyond simple remote code execution to include local file inclusion attacks, making it particularly dangerous for system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the application processes the url parameter without adequate sanitization or validation of the input data. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting malicious URLs that contain PHP code or by using directory traversal sequences such as .. (dot dot) to access local files on the server. This dual exploitation capability makes the vulnerability particularly versatile and dangerous in the hands of skilled attackers. The vulnerability operates at the application layer, specifically targeting the PHP interpreter's ability to process and include external files, which falls under the ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to the web server and potentially escalate privileges to execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web application user. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and the establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's presence in a file hosting application creates additional risks as attackers could potentially access sensitive files or use the compromised system as a staging ground for further attacks. Organizations running affected versions of YABSoft Mega File Hosting face significant exposure to these threats, particularly in environments where the application is publicly accessible.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2009-0966 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected application to the latest available version that addresses this vulnerability. System administrators should implement input validation measures to sanitize all user-supplied data, particularly parameters used in file inclusion operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running the web application with minimal necessary permissions and implementing proper file access controls. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to limit access to the vulnerable application. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other applications. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation mechanisms can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect suspicious file inclusion patterns and unauthorized access attempts to prevent successful exploitation of this and similar vulnerabilities.