CVE-2009-3333 in Com Koesubmit
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in koesubmit.php in the koeSubmit (com_koesubmit) component 1.0 for Mambo allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-3333 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the koeSubmit component version 1.0 for Mambo CMS platforms. This vulnerability resides in the koesubmit.php script and demonstrates a classic path traversal and code execution weakness that has been prevalent in web applications for many years. The flaw specifically manifests when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input parameters, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code on the target system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of the mosConfig_absolute_path parameter which is passed to the koesubmit.php script. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL as the value for this parameter, the vulnerable application incorporates this external resource into its execution context without adequate validation. This allows remote code execution capabilities, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the affected server. The vulnerability is classified as a remote file inclusion issue because it permits attackers to include and execute files from remote locations, effectively bypassing local security controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-3333 is severe and multifaceted, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive data. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files, establish backdoors, perform data exfiltration, or use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the entire Mambo CMS ecosystem and represents a significant risk to organizations relying on this platform for their web presence. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper input validation leading to remote file inclusion attacks, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including patching the affected component to version 1.1 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and sanitization measures to prevent malicious parameters from being processed. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, disabling the vulnerable component until a patch is applied provides a temporary safeguard against exploitation. Security configurations should enforce strict parameter validation and avoid dynamic file inclusion where possible, aligning with the principle of least privilege and input validation best practices established by industry security frameworks.