CVE-2009-3541 in PHPGenealogy
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in CoupleDB.php in PHPGenealogy 2.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the DataDirectory parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3541 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in PHPGenealogy version 2.0, specifically within the CoupleDB.php script. This weakness falls under the category of insecure direct object references and improper input validation, creating an avenue for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input parameters, particularly the DataDirectory parameter that controls file inclusion operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL and passes it through the DataDirectory parameter in the CoupleDB.php script. This allows the application to include and execute remote PHP files, effectively bypassing local security controls and enabling remote code execution. The flaw exists because the application directly incorporates user input into file inclusion functions without adequate sanitization or validation checks, making it susceptible to path traversal attacks and malicious code injection. This type of vulnerability is classified as CWE-98, which specifically addresses improper direct object references and the dangerous practice of allowing external input to control file operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-3541 is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system. Successful exploitation enables remote code execution, which can lead to data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can use this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive genealogical data, or deploy additional malware. The vulnerability affects web applications that process user input through file inclusion mechanisms, making it particularly dangerous in environments where genealogical databases contain personal and sensitive information. This weakness directly maps to attack techniques described in the ATT&CK framework under TA0001 Initial Access and TA0002 Execution, as it allows attackers to gain initial system access and execute malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should update PHPGenealogy to versions that address this flaw, as the original 2.0 release contained no built-in protections against such attacks. The recommended approach involves implementing strict parameter validation, using allowlists for acceptable input values, and avoiding direct user input in file inclusion operations. Security measures should include disabling remote file inclusion in php.ini configurations, implementing proper access controls, and conducting regular security audits. Additionally, network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can help monitor for suspicious file inclusion patterns, while regular vulnerability scanning should be performed to identify similar weaknesses in other applications. The remediation process should also include comprehensive security training for developers to prevent similar issues in future application development cycles, aligning with secure coding practices outlined in industry standards such as OWASP Top Ten and ISO/IEC 27001 security requirements.