CVE-2010-2145 in ClearSite
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in ClearSite Beta 4.50, and possibly other versions, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the cs_base_path parameter to (1) docs.php and (2) include/admin/device_admin.php. NOTE: the header.php vector is already covered by CVE-2009-3306. NOTE: this issue may be due to a variable extraction error.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/06/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2145 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting ClearSite Beta 4.50 and potentially other versions of the software. This issue stems from improper input validation and variable handling within the application's file inclusion mechanisms, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary PHP code on the target system. The vulnerability specifically targets two key files: docs.php and include/admin/device_admin.php, where the cs_base_path parameter is processed without adequate sanitization, allowing attackers to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted URLs.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-94, which describes the improper execution of code due to insufficient input validation in dynamic code execution contexts. The flaw manifests as a variable extraction error where user-controllable input directly influences the inclusion process, enabling attackers to manipulate the application's execution flow. When the cs_base_path parameter is passed to these vulnerable scripts, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the input before using it in file inclusion operations, creating a direct path for remote code execution.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe threat to affected systems as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process. Attackers can leverage this weakness to upload malicious files, establish backdoors, or completely compromise the affected server. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and further lateral movement within the network. The fact that this vulnerability affects multiple files within the application's codebase increases the attack surface and potential for successful exploitation.
The security implications of CVE-2010-2145 align with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PHP" and T1105 for "Remote File Execution." Organizations running affected ClearSite installations face significant risk of unauthorized access and system compromise. The vulnerability's classification as a remote file inclusion issue places it within the broader category of web application vulnerabilities that require immediate attention and remediation. Given that this vulnerability affects core administrative functionality through device_admin.php, the potential for privilege escalation and complete system compromise increases substantially.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the affected ClearSite versions, implementing proper input validation and sanitization for all user-controllable parameters, and restricting file inclusion operations to predefined safe paths. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls, disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP configurations, and conducting comprehensive security assessments of their web applications. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper parameter validation and input sanitization in preventing remote code execution attacks, making it a prime example of why secure coding practices and regular security testing are essential components of any robust cybersecurity program.