CVE-2009-3365 in Aurora
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in add-ons/modules/sysmanager/plugins/install.plugin.php in Aurora CMS 1.0.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the AURORA_MODULES_FOLDER parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3365 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Aurora CMS 1.0.2 content management system. This security weakness resides in the install.plugin.php file located within the system manager plugins directory, specifically affecting the module installation functionality. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly restrict user-supplied data before it is processed within the application's execution flow.
This remote code execution vulnerability operates through the manipulation of the AURORA_MODULES_FOLDER parameter, which is designed to specify the directory where modules are installed. When an attacker crafts a malicious URL and injects it into this parameter, the vulnerable application processes the input without proper validation, allowing the remote attacker to include and execute arbitrary PHP code from external sources. The flaw essentially permits attackers to bypass normal access controls and execute malicious code on the target server with the privileges of the web application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Once exploited, adversaries can upload backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised server as a launching point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the entire CMS installation, potentially compromising all data stored within the system. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploit public-facing application and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where CMS systems serve as critical infrastructure components.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability maps directly to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, specifically in the context of remote file inclusion. This weakness occurs when a web application incorporates user-controllable input directly into file inclusion operations without proper validation. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input sanitization practices and highlights the critical importance of implementing proper parameter validation and secure coding practices. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including patching the application to the latest version, implementing proper input validation, and restricting file inclusion operations to predefined safe locations.
Security best practices for addressing this vulnerability include implementing strict input validation for all parameters that influence file operations, employing whitelisting mechanisms for directory paths, and utilizing secure coding standards that prevent dynamic code execution based on user input. The vulnerability also emphasizes the necessity of regular security assessments and code reviews to identify similar patterns in other applications, as remote file inclusion flaws remain prevalent in web applications due to improper input handling and insufficient security controls. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious file inclusion patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts.