CVE-2009-3317 in OpenSiteAdmin
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in pages/pageHeader.php in OpenSiteAdmin 0.9.7 BETA allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the path parameter, a different vector than CVE-2008-0648.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3317 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the OpenSiteAdmin content management system version 0.9.7 BETA. This security weakness resides in the pages/pageHeader.php component and enables malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input passed through the path parameter, creating an avenue for attackers to manipulate the application's behavior and potentially gain unauthorized access to the underlying system.
The technical nature of this flaw aligns with CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and more specifically relates to CWE-94, which encompasses the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The vulnerability operates through a remote file inclusion mechanism where an attacker can craft a malicious URL and pass it through the path parameter, allowing the application to include and execute the attacker-controlled remote file. This differs from CVE-2008-0648, which addressed a similar but distinct vector of attack, demonstrating that multiple attack paths can exist within the same application framework. The vulnerability essentially permits attackers to bypass normal access controls and execute code with the privileges of the web application, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations utilizing OpenSiteAdmin 0.9.7 BETA, as it provides attackers with a straightforward method to execute malicious code remotely without requiring authentication or physical access to the system. The impact extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation could lead to data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive information, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks against other systems. The remote nature of the exploit means that defenders must maintain constant vigilance and implement proper network monitoring to detect unusual traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate patching of the OpenSiteAdmin application to the latest stable version that addresses this specific flaw. Organizations should implement input validation and sanitization measures at all entry points, particularly for parameters that are used in file inclusion operations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that web applications operate with minimal required permissions and that file inclusion functions are properly restricted to prevent external URL resolution. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation by restricting access to sensitive components. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can provide early detection capabilities for exploitation attempts. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, and organizations should consider implementing defensive measures such as regular security assessments, code reviews, and maintaining up-to-date vulnerability management processes to prevent similar issues from occurring in other applications within their environment.