CVE-2009-3660 in eFront
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in libraries/database.php in Efront 3.5.4 and earlier, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the path parameter. NOTE: this is only a vulnerability when the administrator does not follow recommendations in the product s security documentation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-3660 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw within the Efront learning management system version 3.5.4 and earlier. This issue specifically targets the libraries/database.php component and exploits a dangerous configuration weakness that occurs when the PHP register_globals directive is enabled. The vulnerability operates through a path parameter that accepts URL inputs, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. This represents a classic remote code execution vulnerability that can be leveraged by attackers to gain complete control over the affected server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of user-supplied input within the database.php library file. When register_globals is enabled, PHP automatically creates global variables from request data, including GET, POST, and COOKIE parameters. Attackers can manipulate the path parameter to include malicious URLs that point to remote code repositories, effectively allowing them to include and execute external PHP scripts on the vulnerable server. This flaw directly maps to CWE-88, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an expression, and CWE-94, which covers execution of arbitrary code. The vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental failure in input validation and parameter sanitization, where the application fails to properly validate or escape user-provided data before incorporating it into system operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching for organizations using affected Efront versions. Successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the web server process. This provides attackers with the ability to access, modify, or delete sensitive data, install backdoors, or use the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited without authentication, making it an attractive target for automated attacks. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1059.007 for execution through PHP and T1190 for exploitation of remote services, representing both execution and persistence capabilities for threat actors.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies. The primary recommendation involves disabling the register_globals directive in PHP configuration, as this eliminates the core condition that enables the exploit. Additionally, administrators should ensure that all Efront installations are updated to versions that properly validate and sanitize input parameters before processing. Input validation should be implemented at multiple levels including application code, web server configuration, and database interactions. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Security hardening practices should include disabling unnecessary PHP functions, implementing proper access controls, and conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the system. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of following vendor security recommendations and maintaining current security practices as outlined in the product documentation to prevent such dangerous configurations from being deployed in production environments.