CVE-2009-2791 in ProjectButler
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in pda_projects.php in WebDynamite ProjectButler 1.5.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the offset parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-2791 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the WebDynamite ProjectButler 1.5.0 web application. This issue specifically affects the pda_projects.php script which fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input parameters. The vulnerability stems from the application's improper handling of the offset parameter, which is used to control pagination or navigation within project data displays. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL through this parameter, the application blindly includes and executes the remote file, creating an avenue for arbitrary code execution. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of CWE-98 - Improper Control of Generation of Code and is classified as a remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited from outside the target network.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious request containing a URL in the offset parameter of the pda_projects.php script. The application processes this input without adequate validation, leading to the inclusion of external PHP files that can contain malicious code. This flaw operates at the application layer and can be leveraged to execute commands on the target server with the privileges of the web application user. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code, potentially leading to complete system compromise. According to ATT&CK framework, this maps to T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP and T1505.003 - Server Software Component: Web Shell, as attackers can establish persistent access through uploaded malicious files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform reconnaissance, data exfiltration, and system manipulation. Once an attacker gains remote code execution, they can establish backdoors, scan internal network resources, and potentially escalate privileges to gain administrative control over the affected server. The vulnerability affects organizations using WebDynamite ProjectButler 1.5.0, particularly those with exposed web applications that do not implement proper input validation measures. Organizations may face significant security risks including data breaches, service disruption, and potential compliance violations. The vulnerability is especially concerning in environments where the web application is hosted on servers with elevated privileges, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should implement proper parameter validation to ensure that only expected values are accepted for the offset parameter, rejecting any input containing URLs or external references. The application should be updated to the latest version of ProjectButler where this vulnerability has been patched, or a web application firewall should be deployed to filter malicious requests before they reach the vulnerable application. Input validation should follow the principle of whitelisting, where only known good values are accepted, rather than blacklisting potentially dangerous inputs. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and network segmentation can limit the potential impact of exploitation. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns in web application requests that might indicate exploitation attempts, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other web applications within the organization's infrastructure.