CVE-2009-3056 in KingCMS
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in include/engine/content/elements/menu.php in KingCMS 0.6.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the CONFIG[AdminPath] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3056 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within KingCMS version 0.6.0 that exposes the system to arbitrary code execution attacks. This vulnerability resides in the menu.php file located within the include/engine/content/elements directory structure, making it a core component of the content management system's administrative functionality. The flaw specifically targets the CONFIG[AdminPath] parameter which is improperly validated and sanitized, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute unauthorized PHP code on the target server.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion attacks. This weakness allows attackers to manipulate input parameters that are directly used in file inclusion operations without proper validation. The vulnerability operates under the principle that user-supplied input is trusted and directly incorporated into server-side file operations, enabling attackers to specify malicious URLs that get executed as PHP code. The CONFIG[AdminPath] parameter serves as the primary attack vector, where an attacker can inject a URL pointing to a remote malicious file that gets included and executed by the vulnerable system.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to organizations utilizing KingCMS 0.6.0 as it provides attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. Successful exploitation allows remote code execution, which can lead to full system control, data theft, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within network environments. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include persistent backdoor installation, privilege escalation, and comprehensive system infiltration. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, deploy additional malware, or use the compromised system as a launching point for attacks against other network resources. The vulnerability's remote nature means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the target system.
The recommended mitigation strategies for this vulnerability encompass multiple layers of security controls and system hardening measures. Immediate patching of the KingCMS 0.6.0 installation to the latest available version represents the most effective solution, as this addresses the root cause of the vulnerability through proper input validation and sanitization. System administrators should implement strict input validation controls that prevent URL schemes and external references from being accepted in administrative parameters. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and network segmentation can limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. The use of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional monitoring capabilities to detect and block exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security audits of their web applications to identify similar vulnerabilities and ensure proper parameter validation throughout their codebase. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input sanitization and proper security practices in web application development, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution through remote code injection.