CVE-2009-3323 in BAROSmini
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in BAnner ROtation System mini (BAROSmini) 0.32.595 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the baros_path parameter to (1) include/common_functions.php, and the main_path parameter to (2) lib_users.php, (3) lib_stats.php, and (4) lib_slots.php in include/lib/.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The CVE-2009-3323 vulnerability represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the Banner Rotation System mini (BAROSmini) version 0.32.595, demonstrating a classic security weakness that has persisted across numerous web applications. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating a pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The flaw exists in the application's handling of user-supplied input parameters that are directly incorporated into file inclusion mechanisms without proper sanitization or validation. The vulnerability specifically affects multiple files within the application's include directory structure, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple attack vectors through different inclusion points.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the baros_path parameter in the common_functions.php file and the main_path parameter in several library files including lib_users.php, lib_stats.php, and lib_slots.php. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL in these parameters, the application's file inclusion mechanism processes the input without adequate validation, allowing the system to attempt to include and execute remote PHP code. This represents a fundamental failure in input sanitization practices and demonstrates poor secure coding principles where user-controllable variables are directly used in include statements. The vulnerability is classified as a remote code execution flaw that can be exploited without authentication, making it particularly dangerous in web environments where applications are exposed to untrusted users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, an attacker can upload malicious files, execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive data, and potentially escalate privileges within the system. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the banner rotation system, which may be used for advertising or promotional purposes, potentially allowing attackers to replace legitimate advertisements with malicious content. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in web applications where the application server may have elevated privileges or access to sensitive data repositories. The attack surface is amplified by the fact that multiple inclusion points exist, increasing the likelihood of successful exploitation and providing redundancy for attackers who may need to bypass certain security measures.
Security professionals should approach this vulnerability through multiple defensive strategies to prevent exploitation. The primary mitigation involves implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters that are used in file inclusion operations. This includes enforcing strict parameter validation, implementing whitelisting mechanisms for acceptable file paths, and using absolute path references instead of relative paths that can be manipulated. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and the CWE catalog, specifically addressing CWE-98 and CWE-434 which relate to improper file inclusion and insecure file handling. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls, regularly update and patch vulnerable applications, and conduct thorough security testing including dynamic and static analysis to identify similar vulnerabilities in their codebase. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the need for proper network segmentation and application hardening to prevent unauthorized access to vulnerable systems.