CVE-2009-1248 in Control Panel
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Acute Control Panel 1.0.0 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the theme_directory parameter to (1) container.php and (2) header.php in themes/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-1248 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Acute Control Panel version 1.0.0 software. This issue manifests in two distinct locations within the application's codebase, specifically affecting container.php and header.php files located within the themes/ directory structure. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into file inclusion operations.
The technical nature of this flaw aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an OS command, and more specifically with CWE-94, which addresses the execution of arbitrary code through improper input validation. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating the theme_directory parameter to inject malicious URLs that point to remote servers hosting malicious PHP code. When the application processes these parameters without proper sanitization, it executes the remote code as part of the legitimate application workflow.
This vulnerability operates at the application layer and presents significant operational impact for affected systems. Remote attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server, potentially gaining full control over the affected web application and underlying infrastructure. The attack surface extends beyond simple code execution to include data exfiltration, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or local network presence to carry out successful attacks.
The operational implications of this vulnerability extend to several ATT&CK tactics including TA0001 Initial Access through web application attacks, TA0002 Execution via code injection, and TA0003 Persistence through potential backdoor establishment. Organizations running affected versions of Acute Control Panel face immediate security risks including unauthorized data access, system compromise, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability's exploitation typically requires minimal technical skill and can be automated through various attack frameworks, making it particularly dangerous in environments with insufficient security monitoring.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the affected software to version 1.0.1 or later, which addresses the input validation deficiencies. Additionally, implementing proper input sanitization measures, such as validating and filtering all user-supplied parameters before processing, can prevent similar vulnerabilities. Network segmentation and web application firewalls can provide additional layers of protection. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify other potential remote file inclusion vulnerabilities within their application portfolio. The remediation process should include disabling unnecessary file inclusion features and implementing strict parameter validation protocols to prevent similar issues in future software deployments.