CVE-2009-5095 in gBook
Summary
by MITRE
PHP remote file inclusion vulnerability in index_inc.php in ea gBook 0.1 and 0.1.4 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the inc_ordner parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-5095 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw in the ea gBook 0.1 and 0.1.4 web applications. This vulnerability resides within the index_inc.php file where the application fails to properly validate user input before incorporating it into file inclusion operations. The specific parameter affected is inc_ordner which accepts URL values that are directly processed without adequate sanitization or validation mechanisms. This design flaw creates an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary PHP code through crafted URL parameters, potentially enabling full remote code execution on the affected system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-98, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in an alternate execution scope. The flaw operates by accepting user-supplied input through the inc_ordner parameter and subsequently passing this input directly to PHP's include or require functions without proper validation. When an attacker supplies a malicious URL as the parameter value, the web application processes this input and attempts to include the remote file, executing any PHP code contained within it. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of server-side include attacks and represents a classic example of how insecure input handling can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary PHP code on the target server with the privileges of the web application process. This typically translates to full control over the affected web application and potentially the underlying server, allowing for data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, privilege escalation, and persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability affects versions 0.1 and 0.1.4 of the ea gBook application, making it particularly concerning as these represent widely deployed versions of the software. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from anywhere on the internet without requiring local access or authentication, significantly expanding the attack surface and potential impact.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address the fundamental input validation issue within the application code. The most effective immediate solution involves implementing strict input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters, particularly those used in file inclusion operations. The application should validate that the inc_ordner parameter contains only expected values and reject any input that appears to reference remote URLs or contains suspicious characters. Additionally, the application should be configured to disable remote file inclusion capabilities entirely through php.ini settings by setting allow_url_include to off. The system should also implement proper access controls and input filtering mechanisms that prevent malicious URLs from being processed. From an operational security perspective, organizations should ensure that all web applications are regularly updated and patched, and that proper security monitoring is in place to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of least privilege when developing web applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, emphasizing the need for proper input validation and secure coding practices to prevent such attacks.