CVE-2012-1933 in Newscoop
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple PHP remote file inclusion vulnerabilities in Newscoop 3.5.x before 3.5.5 and 4 before RC4, when register_globals is enabled, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code via a URL in the GLOBALS[g_campsiteDir] parameter to (1) include/phorum_load.php, (2) conf/install_conf.php, or (3) conf/liveuser_configuration.php.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2012-1933 represents a critical remote file inclusion flaw affecting Newscoop content management systems versions 3.5.x prior to 3.5.5 and version 4 before RC4. This vulnerability specifically exploits the dangerous combination of PHP's register_globals directive being enabled and improper input validation within the application's configuration handling mechanisms. The flaw exists in three distinct files including include/phorum_load.php, conf/install_conf.php, and conf/liveuser_configuration.php, making it particularly dangerous as it provides multiple attack vectors for malicious actors seeking to compromise systems running vulnerable versions of Newscoop.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the PHP register_globals feature which automatically creates global variables from HTTP request parameters. When enabled, attackers can manipulate the GLOBALS[g_campsiteDir] parameter to inject malicious URLs that get processed by the include() function in the vulnerable scripts. This creates a classic remote code execution scenario where arbitrary PHP code can be executed on the target server with the privileges of the web application. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-88 - Improper Neutralization of Argument Delimiters in a Command, and falls under the broader category of CWE-94 - Improper Control of Generation of Code, which aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059.001 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on compromised systems, potentially leading to full system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor installation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish reverse shells, deploy malware, or use the compromised server as a pivot point for attacking internal network resources. The vulnerability affects organizations using Newscoop CMS who have not updated to patched versions, particularly those running older configurations where register_globals remains enabled for legacy compatibility reasons. This creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited without requiring authentication or specialized knowledge of the target system beyond the initial vulnerability discovery.
Organizations should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation to address this vulnerability. The primary recommendation is to disable the register_globals directive in PHP configuration, which eliminates the core condition that enables this attack vector. Additionally, all Newscoop installations should be updated to versions 3.5.5 or later for 3.5.x releases, and RC4 or later for version 4. Implementing input validation and sanitization for all user-supplied parameters in the affected files would provide additional defense in depth. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls and intrusion prevention systems should be configured to detect and block requests containing suspicious URL patterns in the GLOBALS parameter. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify any remaining instances of register_globals being enabled in PHP configurations. The ATT&CK framework suggests implementing detection capabilities for suspicious include() function usage patterns and monitoring for anomalous file inclusion activities that could indicate exploitation attempts.