CVE-2011-5130 in Family Connections CMS
Summary
by MITRE
dev/less.php in Family Connections CMS (FCMS) 2.5.0 - 2.7.1, when register_globals is enabled, allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via shell metacharacters in the argv[1] parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/14/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-5130 affects Family Connections CMS versions 2.5.0 through 2.7.1 and represents a critical command injection flaw that exploits improper input validation mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically targets the dev/less.php script within the CMS framework and becomes exploitable when the PHP configuration parameter register_globals is enabled. The flaw stems from the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into system commands, creating a direct pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on the affected server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-77 as "Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command ('Command Injection')", which is a well-documented weakness in software security that enables attackers to inject malicious commands through input fields.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the argv[1] parameter that is passed to the dev/less.php script. When register_globals is enabled, PHP automatically creates global variables from request parameters, allowing attackers to manipulate the application's execution flow by injecting shell metacharacters directly into the command line. This creates a dangerous condition where user-controllable input can be interpreted as executable shell commands, bypassing normal security controls and access restrictions. The vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of insecure input handling where the application trusts user-supplied data without proper validation or sanitization, enabling attackers to chain multiple shell commands and potentially gain full system control. The attack vector operates entirely through HTTP requests, making it accessible to remote threat actors without requiring local system access or authentication credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it provides attackers with complete command execution privileges on the affected web server. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, complete system compromise, and potential lateral movement within network environments. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify or delete files, create new user accounts, and establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects the entire CMS installation and can be exploited to gain access to databases, configuration files, and other system resources that are typically protected from external access. Organizations using affected versions of Family Connections CMS face significant risk of data breaches, system corruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations due to the lack of proper input validation and the dangerous implications of command injection attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-5130 require immediate action to address the root cause of the vulnerability through multiple defensive measures. The primary recommendation is to disable the register_globals PHP configuration option, which eliminates the core condition that enables this attack. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms throughout the application codebase, ensuring that all user-supplied data is properly escaped or filtered before being processed. The recommended approach includes upgrading to a supported version of Family Connections CMS that addresses this vulnerability, as newer versions have implemented proper security controls and input validation. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block malicious requests attempting to exploit this vulnerability. Organizations should also consider applying the principle of least privilege by restricting file permissions and implementing proper access controls to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, highlighting the need for comprehensive defensive measures against command injection attacks.